When you are driving around railroad tracks or approaching a crossing, you must take precautions and be ready to follow the law. The safety of your passengers, yourself, as well as the safety of the passengers on the train, depending on drivers following state laws.
Pennsylvania law requires drivers approaching a railroad to come to a complete stop when the lights begin to flash and a crossing arm comes down. Failure to do so can lead to disastrous consequences. At the Law Offices of Greg Prosmushkin, P.C., we want to discuss these incidents with you today.
What should happen at a railroad crossing?
Railroads and rail transit are commonly used throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. They are an efficient way to move freight and passengers around. Most people understand that trains can cause significant damage when they strike a vehicle.
Due to the size and weight of the trains, they cannot stop as quickly as a regular vehicle in the event something crosses into their path.
According to Pennsylvania law, drivers must stop their vehicle within 50 feet of the tracks but no more than 15 feet from the tracks prior to going through the crossing. Failure to follow the law will result in:
- Four points against a person’s driver’s license
- A fine of up to $500
If there is a traffic light at the stop that is green, or if there are signs indicating that there is no need to stop, drivers can continue through. If there is a sign indicating that the tracks have been abandoned or exempt, a driver does not have to stop.
Other consequences of not stopping
Aside from the monetary fine and points against a license, the worst thing that could happen to anyone is a collision with the train. For the latest reporting year in the country, there were around 12,000 total train incidents that cause nearly 9,000 injuries and 800 fatalities.
- In Pennsylvania, there are around 220 freight train incidents a year.
These collisions can lead to major expenses for victims, including medical bills, lost income, rehabilitation, and more.
When you need help
If you or someone you love has been Injured in a railroad incident due to the actions of another person, please seek legal assistance today. At the Law Offices of Greg Prosmushkin, P.C., we are ready to get to the bottom of what happened so we can secure the compensation you deserve. This can include:
- Your medical expenses related to the incident
- Lost wages and benefits if you cannot work
- Pain and suffering damages
- Loss of personal enjoyment damages
- Possible punitive damages against those responsible
If you have received a Ticket for illegally crossing railroad tracks, we want to help you deal with that as well. You may very well be able to beat the ticket with the right legal representation.
When you need a railroad accident lawyer in Philadelphia, you can contact us for a free consultation by calling (215)-799-9990