It is predicted that this holiday season will be a very busy time for Florida roads. The American Automobile Association (AAA) says more than 4 million Floridians will travel on our roadways this holiday season, up 1.8 percent from 2010.
The latest Federal Railroad Administration crash data shows that crossing the railroad tracks in Florida is somewhat safer than it has been in the past.
Injuries and the number of vehicle-train crashes dipped during the first nine months of 2011 when compared to the same time period last year.
Florida had 40 railroad crossing accident from January to September that resulted in six deaths. Broward County had two deaths and five crossing accidents while Palm Beach County had five accidents and one death to report, according to The Sun-Sentinel News.
Florida was just one of 10 states that was ordered to reduce train and vehicle collisions by coming up with a plan over the next five years. Part of the improvements include making it safer for pedestrians to cross the tracks. Some advice from the group, Operation Lifesaver, that promotes safety around trains includes:
- Expect a train at any time. Be sure to look both ways.
- Avoid cell phones, ear phones, and any other distractions. You must be able to hear an approaching train while driving or walking around rail road tracks.
- Do not hesitate for a moment while crossing tracks. Be sure to get to the other side as quickly as possible and don’t stop on the tracks. Wait until you or your vehicle clears the rail road area.
The Florida auto accident lawyers at Farah & Farah understand the serious nature of railroad accidenrs and can help you seek compensation from parties responsible for your injuries. Call our offices today at (800) 533-3555.
Source: http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/broward/fl-rail-crossing-safety-20111226,0,6043231.story
