If you observed a Union Pacific locomotive at a railroad crossing in Jefferson City on Wednesday, the personnel on board may also have been observing you.
Union Pacific officials teamed with local law enforcement officers to participate in exercise designed to improve grade crossing and pedestrian safety. The activity was a part of Union Pacific's Crossing Accident Reduction Education and Safety (UP CARES) program.
Trains cannot steer out of the way or stop quickly; a train traveling at 55 mph requires more than a mile to stop. That's why trains always have the right of way - over pedestrians, cars, trucks and even emergency vehicles.
As a basis for comparison, the weight of a train compared to an automobile is roughly equivalent to the weight of an automobile compared to a tin can.
For those reasons, it is incumbent on pedestrians and motorists to respect the laws and the laws of physics. To that end:
• When approaching a railroad crossing, stop, listen and look both ways; a train may be coming from either direction.
• Never drive around crossing arms when they are down or lights are flashing. The signal warns of an oncoming train, even if you can't see one.
• Never stop on railroad tracks.
In addition, pedestrians are reminded not to trespass on railroad property.
On the UP CARES website, the railroad acknowledges: "Not everyone who trespasses on railroad property does so with bad intentions. Perhaps they think it's a faster way to get home from school or a good spot to shoot a few photos. Regardless of intent, trespassing isn't just illegal - it's dangerous."
That caution to avoid railroad tracks and bridges also applies to hunters, fishermen and other outdoor enthusiasts.
Railroads are an integral part of the rich history of Central Missouri and its communities. Although some rail lines have been abandoned, others remain active freight and passenger corridors.
As pedestrians and motorists, it's our job to treat railroad crossings, tracks and property with the utmost deference and caution.