Unlike road intersections that are almost always busy with traffic, railroad crossings are often clear of train traffic. This can make the commercial or owner operator truck driver complacent about its dangers. Although the risk of a train/truck collision is less at railroad crossings than car/truck collisions are at intersections, the consequences of a train collision are catastrophic. Unlike vehicles on the road, the train that weighs millions of pounds cannot swerve or brake to accommodate driving mistakes. You must always use the correct safety procedures when crossing railroad tracks.
As providers of commercial or owner operator truck insurance in Texas, we would like to offer these four safety tips:
Slow down and Be Ready to Stop at Railroad Crossings
Don’t assume that a railroad crossing will be clear. Although passenger trains have a fixed schedule, they can experience delays. A freight train does not run on a fixed schedule and can arrive at a crossing at any time. Driving straight through a crossing without slowing down can turn into a dangerous habit.
The law requires certain types of commercial trucks to always stop at railroad crossings. Other trucks are required to slow down to a speed that allows them to stop regardless of whether there is a train, or regardless of the state of warning lights and gates. Never rely on any of these warning devices because malfunctions are common.
Keep Your Trailer Jacks in the up Position
Trailer jacks may become stuck on the tracks, especially if your commercial or owner operator truck is carrying a heavy load. Include a trailer jack check in your pre-trip inspection.
Never Stop on a Railroad Track
Don’t allow backed up traffic to stop you on a railroad track. Stop in front of the tracks and stay put while the traffic is backed up.
Get Away from Your Truck When a Collision Is Imminent
If your commercial or owner operator truck is stuck on the tracks when a train is approaching, get out and run in the direction of the train’s approach while staying well off the tracks. This will get you away from the area affected by the truck debris. Call the police.
Don’t get caught with inadequate insurance when an accident strikes. Contact us at J.E.B. Insurance Services, LLC with any questions you have about commercial or owner operator truck insurance in Texas.
