June 14, 2017

Passenger Rail Safety Tips

By Jonathan Damashek

Posted in Personal Injury, Public Transit Accidents

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Passenger Rail Safety TipsMost New Yorkers are assiduous users of our train transportation system. Unfortunately, during the last several months, they’ve faced derailments and delays that have caused accidents and injuries. A recently announced repair plan at Pennsylvania Station in New York City may add to the dangers. This plan will include the cancellation and reschedule of several daily trains and is expected to cause chaos at many New York-area railway stations. According to the New York Times, Amtrak riders may experience a “Summer of Hell”.

For the reasons listed above, we want to share several safety tips to make your train commute smoother and safer. Read carefully to avoid accidents and injuries:

  1. BE CAUTIOUS.
    Trains are sometimes quiet and can come from either direction at any time. Around train tracks or in stations, follow all warning signs and signals. If traveling with children make sure they are holding your hand or are close to you the entire time.
  2. STAND AT A SIGNIFICANT DISTANCE FROM THE PLATFORM EDGE.
    Painted or raised markings at the platform edge are meant to show commuters where they shouldn’t stand. Staying at least three feet from the train while it is coming in or out of the station will keep you safe.
  3. WAIT FOR THE TRAIN TO STOP BEFORE MOVING FORWARD
    Accidents usually happen to anxious people who cannot wait.
  4. MIND THE GAP.
    Be careful getting on and off the train and pay special attention to the gap between the train door and the station platform.
  5. HOLD ON WHEN ON BOARD.
    Hold on tight to poles or seats, and obey directions from the train operator or conductor. In addition, make sure that pocketbooks, knapsacks, clothing, packages, umbrellas, and other personal items are clear of the closing doors.
  6. STAY OFF THE TRACKS.
    NEVER go down onto the tracks. If you drop something, tell a police officer, or train or station personnel. If you need to cross, follow directional signs and markings that let you know where it is safe to do so. Crossing the tracks anywhere else is dangerous and illegal.

If you or a family member is injured in a train accident or in a train station contact us immediately for a FREE consultation. We are here to help.