What to Do if Your Car Stalls on Train Tracks

It can happen in an instant – your car stalls and you realize you are stuck on train tracks. Staying calm and acting quickly is the key to protecting yourself and others. Here’s what you need to do.

Step One: Get Out of the Vehicle Immediately

Your first priority is to get yourself and any passengers out of the car as quickly as possible. Do not waste time trying to restart the engine or gather belongings. Safety comes first.

If There Is No Train Coming

Once everyone is safely away from the vehicle, look for the blue sign with white letters posted near the crossing. This is your lifeline in emergencies, which is why safety experts say: Find the Blue and White to Save Your Life.

This sign will contain:

• A phone number to reach the railroad directly
• A crossing number that identifies your exact location

Call the number on the sign immediately to report the situation. If you cannot find the sign or it is not visible, call 911 and tell them you are stuck on the tracks. Be sure to give them as much detail as possible about your location.

If a Train Is Coming

If you see or hear a train approaching, do not try to move your car. Move yourself and your passengers away from the tracks and at an angle toward the train’s direction of travel. This helps avoid being hit by debris if the train strikes your vehicle. Once you are a safe distance away, call 911 to report the incident and warn authorities.

Why the Blue and White Sign Matters

The blue and white Emergency Notification System (ENS) sign is placed at every railroad crossing in the United States. It is designed for situations just like this. The crossing number helps the railroad pinpoint exactly where you are so they can stop or slow any approaching trains. In a crisis, these few seconds can make all the difference.