Ensure your summer road trip is a rail-safe one

It’s summer and almost all COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted. That means many Canadians are hitting the road for their annual summer road trip—despite the record high price of gas. But whether it’s a trip to the cottage or to the other side of the country, getting there in one piece is critical.
 
Unfortunately, almost 20 per cent of reported automobile collisions in Canada happen during the summertime. And since there are 46,000 kilometres of railway tracks across the country, there is always a risk of collisions happening between cars and trains. Last July alone, three Canadians were seriously injured and another two lost their lives in railway crossing incidents.
 
Brushing up on the rail safety rules saves lives
 
If you’re heading out on the open road, getting to know the rail safety rules will help you to avoid a tragic incident. Brush up on these tips to ensure you get where you’re going safely:
 

• Obey all railway warning signs and signals, and never drive around lowered gates at a crossing.
• Slow down when approaching rail crossings and prepare to stop. Always look in both directions down all tracks and listen for trains before proceeding through a crossing.
• Don’t text or talk on your cell phone, or eat or drink while driving.
• Always expect a train, as even seemingly abandoned tracks could come back into service at any time.
• Don’t get trapped on the tracks—only cross if you’re sure you can completely clear them.
• Get out of your car and move a safe distance away from the tracks if your vehicle stalls in a crossing.
• Never try to race a train to a crossing.

You can also check out our website for more rail safety resources, stats and tips. And why not connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter? Sharing our posts with the people you care about could help save a life.