The Richmond Kanawha Canal Derailment: A Crucial Warning for Drivers
Recently, dramatic footage captured a startling incident in Richmond, Virginia, where multiple CSX train cars derailed and plunged directly into the historic Kanawha Canal. While emergency crews rushed to the scene to secure the area, the incident left local motorists facing sudden road closures, heavy traffic delays, and unexpected detours. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but this dramatic event serves as a stark reminder of the immense power of rail transport—and why drivers must always prioritize safety when navigating around railway infrastructure.
As car owners and daily commuters, we often share the road with or drive parallel to massive railway systems. While train derailments like the one in Richmond are relatively rare, railway crossing accidents and vehicle-train collisions are far more common. In this guide, we will break down the essential railway safety rules every driver must know, what to do if your vehicle stalls on the tracks, and how to safely navigate roads near major transit accidents.
Essential Railway Crossing Safety Rules for Motorists
A standard freight train traveling at 55 miles per hour can take more than a mile to come to a complete stop after slamming on its emergency brakes. For comparison, that is the length of 18 football fields. Because trains cannot swerve or stop quickly, the burden of safety falls heavily on the motorist. To keep yourself and your passengers safe, always implement these critical habits:
- Never try to beat a train: It is nearly impossible to judge the speed and distance of an oncoming train accurately. Because of their massive size, trains always appear to be moving slower than they actually are. If you see a train approaching, always stop and wait.
- Do not get trapped on the tracks: Never drive onto a railroad crossing unless you are absolutely sure you can completely clear the tracks without stopping. If you are driving in heavy traffic, wait until the vehicle in front of you has fully crossed and created enough space for your car on the other side.
- Keep your eyes and ears open: Turn down your car audio system and roll down your window slightly when approaching a crossing, especially at night or in heavy fog. Look both ways down the tracks before proceeding, even if the crossing signals are not actively flashing.
- Adhere to the 15-foot rule: Always stop your vehicle at least 15 feet away from the nearest rail when the crossing signals are active, a gate is lowered, or a train is approaching.
What to Do If Your Vehicle Stalls on the Railroad Tracks
One of the most terrifying scenarios a driver can face is having their vehicle stall or get stuck on a railway crossing. If this ever happens to you, panic can quickly take over. Knowing exactly what steps to take beforehand can save your life. If your car stalls on the tracks, follow this emergency protocol immediately:
- Evacuate the vehicle immediately: Do not waste time trying to restart the engine or gather your personal belongings. Get everyone out of the car immediately.
- Run toward the oncoming train: This may sound counterintuitive, but if a train is approaching, you must run away from the tracks at a 45-degree angle in the direction of the oncoming train. If the train hits your car, the impact will push the debris forward. Running toward the train's direction keeps you safe from flying metal and glass.
- Locate the Blue Sign (ENS): Every public railway crossing has a blue Emergency Notification System (ENS) sign posted near the tracks or on the signal post. This sign contains a toll-free emergency phone number and a unique 1-digit location number.
- Call for help: Dial the number on the blue sign immediately to alert the railway dispatchers of your stalled vehicle. They can contact oncoming trains in the area to halt traffic. After calling the ENS number, dial 911 to alert local emergency services.
Navigating Roadways Near Major Transit Accidents
When an incident like the Richmond Kanawha Canal derailment occurs, the surrounding road networks are immediately impacted. Debris, chemical spills, downed power lines, and emergency vehicles can create highly hazardous driving conditions. If you find yourself driving near a major transit accident, keep the following safety tips in mind:
First, respect all road closures and detours. Do not attempt to bypass barricades or police blockades to get a closer look at the scene. Rubbernecking not only slows down traffic flow but also increases the risk of secondary rear-end collisions.
Second, give emergency vehicles plenty of space. If you see flashing lights behind you or approaching an intersection, safely pull over to the right and allow them to pass. Under many state laws, drivers are required to change lanes or slow down significantly when passing emergency vehicles parked on the side of the road.
Finally, stay tuned to local traffic reports and navigation apps to find alternative routes. Avoiding the affected area entirely is the best way to keep yourself safe and allow first responders to do their jobs efficiently.
Final Thoughts: Staying Vigilant on the Road
The recent train derailment in Richmond serves as an important reminder that unexpected emergencies can happen at any time. By understanding how to act around railway crossings and knowing what to do in a worst-case scenario, you can protect yourself, your passengers, and your vehicle from harm. Stay alert, respect the rails, and keep safety your top priority every time you get behind the wheel.