LAS CRUCES – Two people have been killed in Las Cruces so far this year after being struck by trains, prompting the Las Cruces Police Department to remind residents about the dangers associated with railroad tracks and crossings.
The department is joining Operation Lifesaver, GoRail New Mexico and rail industry partners in recognizing “See Tracks? Think Train Week,” formerly known as Rail Safety Week.
According to information provided by LCPD, a vehicle or pedestrian is struck by a train nearly every three hours somewhere in the United States.
Police are reminding motorists and pedestrians to remain alert and watch and listen for trains whenever they are near railroad tracks. People should stay clear of tracks when trains are approaching and should never walk, run, stand or play on railroad tracks or rail bridges. Railroad tracks and trains are private property, and trespassing is prohibited.
Motorists should never drive around, under or through a lowered crossing gate or attempt to race a train to a crossing. At crossings without gates, drivers should approach cautiously and be prepared to stop.
Drivers should also be aware that buses and vehicles carrying hazardous materials are required by law to stop before crossing railroad tracks. Motorists approaching those stopped vehicles should slow down and use caution.
LCPD also reminds drivers to know their vehicle’s ground clearance, particularly at crossings where the roadway elevation changes on either side of the tracks.
If a vehicle becomes stuck on or near railroad tracks, everyone should immediately get out of the vehicle and move away from the tracks. Police advise moving at a 45-degree angle toward the direction from which the train is approaching. This reduces the risk of being struck by debris if the train collides with the vehicle.
Damaged railroad tracks or crossing gates, as well as vehicles stalled on or near railroad tracks, should immediately be reported to 911.
“See Tracks? Think Train Week” is intended to increase public awareness of the potentially deadly consequences of unsafe behavior around trains and railroad crossings.
John Krehbiel – Bravo Mic Communications News, LLC – John@Bravomic.com