Summers County officials urge caution around tracks during National Rail Safety Week

HINTON, WV (WVNS) — During National Rail Safety Week, which started on Monday, September 23, 2024, Summers County officials urged pedestrians and motorists to use caution and follow traffic laws around railroad tracks.

U.S. Federal Railroad Administration data shows more than 400 people die each year in railroad-related incidents, with 90 percent occurring because of a collision with a train or because a person is trespassing on the tracks.

Summers County Sheriff’s Department Chief Deputy, Tim Adkins urged motorists to use common sense when approaching railroad tracks.

“In Hinton, we have several railroad crossings, and most of them utilize a system where an arm drops and they notify you a train is coming,” said Chief Deputy Adkins. “But technology is not always absolute. So, it’s always a good idea to stop before you cross tracks, look both ways, just like you were taught in school.”

Trains are unable to stop quickly, due to their size and momentum, and Chief Deputy Adkins said that people should avoid walking on the tracks.

“In a lot of those places, that can actually be deemed trespassing from CSX (Railroad), so it’s just a good idea, good rule of thumb, to stay off of them, in general, not only from a legal aspect, but also from the danger,” he said.

Summers County Commissioner, Ted Kula pointed out that Hinton has a rich history with the American railroad system and still celebrates Hinton Railroad Days each year.

He urged people to be patient when driving near railroad tracks.

“With this being Rail Safety Week, we would encourage people to take extra precaution, to be safe when crossing the railroad tracks, especially when you’re waiting,” said Commissioner Kula. “We all get in a hurry, but I’d encourage people not to drive around those gates and to just be patient, because we don’t want to see anybody get hurt.”

Those waiting on the platform should stand behind the yellow line, according to safety experts.

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