Dear Editor,
While it’s true that some railroad crossings aren’t as safe as they could be either from inadequate visibility along railroad tracks and/or their not being signalized, there are still ways to minimize the chances of colliding with any train at any such crossing.
If you come to an ungated crossing, treat it as if you are coming to a stop sign: STOP. Then LOOK both ways and LISTEN for a horn. Turn down your radio; roll down your window if you have to so that there is no way you could not hear an approaching train.
For the life of me I cannot imagine not hearing any approaching train blowing its horn unless one is not paying attention as those horns are LOUD! Finally, don’t cross the tracks until you’re sure they are clear. Frankly, there is nothing that a railroad or the parish can do to totally prevent accidents at any railroad crossings resulting from any kind of inattention. And if one comes to a crossing that appears to be less than ideal or has visability issues, then it stands to reason that one should treat that crossing with extra care.
The mess a train going full speed makes of a car that it hits is comparable to the mess your car makes hitting a soda can. That thought alone should make one more cautious. There are also some eye-opening videos on YouTUBE that I would think would make one want to Stop, Look, Listen, and Live.
Steve Romano
Luling
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