The Association of American Railroads (AAR) joins the rail safety community to mark U.S. Rail Safety Week, September 23-29, 2018, and raise awareness on how the public can stay safe near tracks. Ninety-five percent of rail-related deaths involve drivers going through a grade crossing or a person on the tracks; these are overwhelmingly preventable.
 
“There is no higher priority than safety for America’s railroads, which is why they are onboard to ensure the public knows how to stay safe near railroad tracks,” said AAR president and CEO Edward R. Hamberger. “Last year, more than 1,000 Americans were killed or injured in trespassing or grade crossing accidents – a stark reminder that our job is far from done.”
 
Every three hours in the United States, a person or vehicle is struck by a train. During Rail Safety Week, a broad coalition works together to educate the public of the dangers on and around rail tracks. The annual campaign encourages safe behavior by reminding pedestrians and drivers to always stop, think and listen when they approach tracks.
 
“Together we can stop track tragedies,” added Hamberger. “Always remember that when you see tracks, think train.”
 
For information on what role Operation Lifesaver plays in rail safety education, please visit http://oli.org/. For information on the “See Tracks? Think Train!” campaign, please visit http://seetracksthinktrain.org/.