The CN Police would like to spread a rail safety message to Burnaby drivers.
Not only is it dangerous to disregard signals/signs at railroad crossings, but it is illegal.
So keep that in mind the next time you’re tempted to race a train.
I’ve seen drivers do some ridiculous stuff at the tracks at Winston and Cariboo in North Burnaby.
People know a train is coming because the arms are down, but they snake their way around them. What could possibly be that important to do something so stupid?
As per Section 185 of the Motor Vehicle Act – BC, states that all motorists must obey the signs and control devices at crossings.
Please take the time to be aware of your surroundings and watch for railway crossings in your community.
Safety tips:
- Trains and cars do not mix. Never race a train to the crossing – even if you tie, you lose.
- Be aware that trains cannot stop quickly. Even if the locomotive engineer sees you, a train can take up to 2 km or more to stop. That’s 18 football fields!
- Never drive around lowered gates – it is illegal and extremely dangerous.
- Do not get trapped on the tracks; proceed through a railroad crossing only if you are sure you can completely clear the crossing without stopping. Remember, the train is much wider than the tracks on both sides. If You Can’t Fit – Don’t Commit!
- If your vehicle stalls on a track & a train is approaching, exit the vehicle immediately and move quickly AWAY from the tracks in the direction from which the train is coming. Contact the railway company concerned for assistance.
- Check the back of the Cross buck (X) or the automatic signal post for a yellow bumper sticker. This will have the 24/7 Emergency contact number for CN or CP to report an incident involving the railway. This sticker will soon be replaced by a blue sign posted on the crossing signal pole.
