Citation

Jackson L. ITE J. 1982; 52(10): 35-37.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1982, Institute of Transportation Engineers)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Following a discussion of the seriousness and magnitude of the problem of railroad/highway grade crossing accidents involving trucks transporting bulk hazardous materials, this article points out two common factors observed in the more recently investigated accidents. The first factor is that these accidents tended to occur near terminals. The second factor is that drivers involved in these accidents appeared to demonstrate an irresponsible or careless attitude at the crossings, which perhaps indicates the need for special licensing for drivers of hazardous materials. The remainder of this article examines several aspects of Operation Lifesaver, the National Safety Council's nationwide program to reduce railroad grade crossing accidents, which could be used to attack the hazardous material truck problem. These aspects include: traffic engineering measures; traffic law enforcement; truck driver education; legislation and regulations; and a uniform coordinated effort by all agencies involved.