Rail Crossing Warning Devices

Re “Woman Killed When Train, Car Collide,” Nov. 8.

This tragic accident in which a young woman in Somis was hit by a train at an unprotected railroad crossing is an all-too-familiar story.

The accident occurred at a crossing that had no active warning devices. According to the Federal Railroad Administration, more than 80% of the nation’s public railroad crossings are not protected by lights and gates. These are the crossings where drivers have no warning of approaching trains. And tragically, these are the crossings where more than half of the accidents and fatalities occur.

But that part of the story often goes untold, because the railroads have used their considerable resources on a different message: that railroad crossing safety is entirely up to drivers and pedestrians. It’s time for the railroad industry to step up and take responsibility for the safety of its own operations and for protecting the rest of us, particularly at those unguarded crossings.

SHERRY KIESLING FOX

Executive director

RailWatch

Houston