Amtrak offers tips to prevent train track injuries, deaths

With warmer weather approaching, Amtrak has offered railroad safety tips to prevent injury or death.

In 2016, there were 14 rail deaths in Michigan as a result of trespassing, according to the Federal Railroad Administration.

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Never walk, bike or run on railroad tracks. Also, don’t use headsets or phones near railroad tracks because they can prevent you from hearing approaching trains.

Trains are larger than the tracks, so getting too close can result in a person being hit or dragged under the train.

When near a station or tracks, follow all warning signals and signs because trains can come from any direction, and they can sometimes be quiet.

Always stop at railroad crossings and never go around the crossing arms when they are down. This is illegal and carries large fines, Amtrak said.

The Amtrak Police Department can be contacted at 800-331-0008 or by texting 27311 to report suspicious activity, persons or items.

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