SCC encourages caution around railroad tracks for ‘See Tracks? Think Train’ week

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The State Corporation Commission (SCC) is encouraging Virginia pedestrians to stay safe around railroad tracks and crossings.

Throughout the week of Sept. 15 to Sept. 21, the SCC will be joining Operation Lifesaver Inc. -- a nonprofit organization committed to rail safety education -- to raise awareness for pedestrians, motorists, bicyclists and others that interact with railroads.

It's known as "See Tracks? Think Train" week, where safety divisions work with the Federal Railroad Administration to conduct investigations, inspect tracks and promote safe movement of cargo and passengers throughout Virginia, among other efforts.

According to Operation Lifesaver, a person or vehicle is hit by a train every three hours in the United States -- and most of those instances could have been prevented.

People are encouraged to stay alert, exercise caution and obey the signs and signals surrounding railroad tracks. Simply put, you should always expect a train, according to advice from Division Director Lauren Govoni and Virginia Operation Lifesaver coordinator Tracey Lamb.

Additionally, the SCC will partner with other agencies, including law enforcement railroad safety partners for See Tracks? Think Train Week, with daily themes like commuter and transit safety and photographer safety.

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