Have you ever been driving along on a country road and see a bus at a railroad crossing? It’s stopped.
Have you ever wondered why buses must always stop, even when no train seems to be approaching. This precaution is a lifesaving safety measure rooted in history and continues to protect passengers and drivers alike.
At BusWhere, we’re committed to enhancing transportation safety through real-time bus tracking solutions, helping schools and organizations ensure a safer commute for everyone. This article shares the history and significance of this important safety procedure.
The History Behind the Requirement
The mandate for buses to stop at railroad crossings stems from a tragic incident that occurred on December 1, 1938, in Sandy, Utah. During a severe snowstorm, a school bus carrying students to Jordan High School attempted to cross a railroad track despite limited visibility. Unfortunately, the driver misjudged the situation and did not notice a delayed Denver & Rio Grande Western freight train speeding towards the crossing at 60 mph.
In a terrible event, the train collided with the bus, leading to one of the deadliest school bus accidents in U.S. history. This tragedy claimed the lives of 27 students and the driver. The event prompted states across the nation to implement strict safety measures to prevent similar disasters.
Modern Safety Protocols for Buses at Railroad Crossings
Today, federal law requires school buses to follow specific procedures when approaching a railroad crossing. These protocols include:
- Full Stop at a Safe Distance: Buses must stop at least 15 feet away from the tracks to maintain a safe buffer.
- Eliminating Distractions: Drivers are required to silence all noises inside the bus, including radios, fans, and conversations among students, to focus on detecting trains.
- Opening Doors and Windows: By doing so, the driver improves their ability to hear approaching trains.
- Looking and Listening: Drivers visually scan the tracks and listen carefully for train horns or vibrations indicating an oncoming train.
- Crossing Only When Safe: The driver proceeds only when the tracks are completely clear.
Comprehensive Safety Measures
Stopping at railroad crossings is just one part of a broader commitment to transportation safety. Schools enforce regular maintenance and inspections of their buses and ensure that drivers receive proper training to handle critical situations, including navigating railroad crossings.
For example, resources like the National Association for Pupil Transportation offer valuable guidelines for school bus safety, which complement these protocols and enhance overall preparedness.
Why These Safety Rules Matter
While it might seem inconvenient to wait behind a bus at a crossing, this pause is a crucial step in protecting lives. The 1938 tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved and the importance of these precautions.
There are many extra precautions that are asked of bus drivers and transport teams – especially because they are transporting our most precious cargo – our children.
At BusWhere, we support these safety measures by providing transportation directors and parents with real-time tracking and insights. Our solutions not only improve safety but also offer transparency and peace of mind during every commute.
Safety First in School Transportation
The next time you see a bus stop at a railroad crossing, remember the lifesaving history behind this practice. Safety measures like these ensure that children and passengers arrive at their destinations safely every day.
Ready to enhance safety and efficiency in your school’s transportation system? Learn more about BusWhere’s innovative solutions and discover how we can help you create a safer, more reliable transportation experience.