The Atlanta accident lawyers at the Perazzo Law Firm understand that train crossings pose significant risks to motorists when appropriate precautions are ignored. Each year, numerous accidents at railroad crossings result in injuries, fatalities, and substantial property damage. However, with increased awareness and adherence to safety measures, many of these incidents can be prevented.
Importance of Awareness
One of the most crucial aspects of avoiding car accidents at train crossings is driver awareness. Motorists should always stay vigilant for signs indicating an upcoming railroad crossing, such as “Railroad Crossing” or “Look for Trains.” These warnings are often accompanied by flashing lights or automated crossing gates. Ignoring these signals or attempting to rush across the tracks increases the likelihood of a crash. In Georgia’s larger cities, such as Atlanta, Savannah, and Augusta, there are many railroad crossings intersecting busy urban roads, making driver attentiveness especially important.
Obeying Traffic Laws at Crossings
When approaching a crossing where lights are flashing or gates are down, it is critical for drivers to stop and wait until the train passes and the signals are no longer active. Trying to beat an approaching train, even if it seems far away, is a dangerous gamble. In Georgia, traffic laws require drivers to stop at least 15 feet from a railroad crossing when signals are active. Violating these laws can lead to severe accidents, as trains need a long distance to come to a complete stop once they’ve spotted an obstacle(
Dangers of Driving Around Gates
Some motorists attempt to drive around lowered gates, believing they can safely cross the tracks before the train arrives. This behavior is extremely dangerous and illegal. Railroad crossing gates are designed to protect vehicles by closing when a train is nearby. In Georgia, drivers who ignore these gates not only risk their lives but also face fines and legal penalties. In cities like Atlanta, where several crossings intersect with high-traffic roads, enforcing these safety protocols is crucial for reducing accidents.
Handling a Vehicle Breakdown on the Tracks
If a vehicle stalls or breaks down on the tracks, quick and decisive action is key to ensuring the safety of all occupants. Motorists should immediately exit the vehicle and move a safe distance away from the tracks, particularly in the direction the train is coming from to avoid being struck by debris in case of a collision. In Georgia, railroad crossings typically have posted emergency contact numbers, making it easy for drivers to alert authorities and stop approaching trains.
Georgia’s High-Risk Railroad Crossings
Several dangerous train crossings are located in Atlanta, Macon, and Columbus. In particular, crossings in Atlanta’s metropolitan area, which see both heavy road traffic and frequent train service, are high-risk zones. For example, Memorial Drive and Moreland Avenue are busy corridors with active train routes. In Savannah, crossings near the port are critical due to both train and freight traffic, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Augusta and Columbus also have rail crossings intersecting key highways, demanding extra caution from drivers.
Preventing accidents at train crossings is a shared responsibility. By remaining vigilant, obeying traffic laws, and knowing how to react in emergencies, motorists can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. In cities with heavy rail traffic, like those in Georgia, these precautions become even more vital. Through awareness and adherence to safety protocols, both drivers and pedestrians can contribute to safer roads and railways.
Striving to be the best Atlanta car accident lawyer, Jonathan Perazzo, personal injury attorney and founder of the Perazzo Law Firm, understands that the moments after a car accident that leads to injury, can be daunting for car accident victims. That is why, it is fundamentally important to contact a trusted and dedicated car accident lawyer in Georgia following an accident.
GOOGLE REVIEWS FOR THE PERAZZO LAW FIRM
Contact us ONLINE or CALL 888-PERAZZO now for a FREE Consultation