Wisconsin is home to 3,300 miles of active train tracks that are essential to the state’s economy and connect travelers to their destinations. Because trains cannot make sudden stops, drivers and pedestrians should be extra vigilant when approaching railroad tracks to prevent serious crashes.

“Trains can move in either direction at any time, and they have become much quieter” State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. “Drivers and pedestrians should always expect a train at each rail crossing and make safe choices to avoid track tragedies.”

About a dozen people are hurt in train related crashes every year in Wisconsin. The Wisconsin State Patrol’s September Law of the Month reminds drivers and all road users to remain alert to avoid those preventable tragedies.

Navigating rail crossings

There are nearly 4,000 public rail crossings across the state. If you need to cross train tracks, be sure to obey all signs and signals posted at the designated pedestrian and roadway crossings. Some rail crossings do not have flashing lights and gates, so be sure to slow down, look both ways and listen for an approaching train. Distractions, such as phones and music, can prevent you from seeing or hearing an approaching train. 

Drivers should also keep these safety tips in mind: 

• State lawprohibits drivers from going around lowered crossing gates or crossing closely to an approaching train. At ungated crossings, drivers should look for trains even when there are no warning lights activated.
• Do not stop on the tracks, even when there is no train in sight. In heavier traffic, a vehicle can get trapped in the middle of a crossing, which is very dangerous. To avoid this, make sure you have enough room to get all the way across the tracks before you start crossing them.
• If your vehicle stalls on the tracks, get out immediately and move as far away from it as possible. Then look for the blue Emergency Notification System sign with a phone number to call for help. If there’s no sign, call 911.
• Stay back. When waiting for a crossing train, stay behind the painted lines on the road. Pedestrians and bicyclists should consider the following to stay safe:
• Never walk or ride around lowered crossing gates. Wait for the train to pass and the gates to lift.
• Train tracks and rail yards are private property. Never walk on tracks. It is illegaland dangerous to trespass on rail property.
• A train can extend three feet or more beyond the rail, putting the safety zone for pedestrians well beyond the three-foot mark.
• If there are rails on the railroad ties, always assume the track is in use, even if there are weeds or the track looks unused.
• Cross at a 90-degree angle with a bike, scooter, stroller or wheelchair to prevent your wheels from becoming stuck.
• Never stop on the tracks.

For additional information on rail safety, visit wisconsindot.gov/Pages/safety/education/rail/default.aspx

View the September Law of the Month video and news release online: wisconsindot.gov/Pages/about-wisdot/newsroom/law/090325-sept-lom-rail-safety.aspx

Submitted by Wisconsin DOT