Train Safety

Trains are a great addition to the Twin Cities in Minnesota, but like any moving vehicle, they come with warnings that must be observed. Make safety a priority on and around trains, so that adults and children can learn how to be safe around the tracks, and prevent serious injury or even death.

National studies show that light-rail trains are safer than cars, trucks – and even buses. Metro Transit is committed to promoting safety for those who live and work near the Hiawatha Line through education, physical safeguards (barriers, warning signs) and enforcement.

Safety along the Hiawatha Line

Light-rail transit is safe – as long as everyone obeys warning signs and complies with barriers and safety laws. It's not only unsafe but against the law to walk along light-rail tracks or to trespass on rail bridges or in tunnels. Pedestrians, motorists and bicyclists must cross only at designated crossings. Tracks at these intersections are embedded in the ground, level with the street, for safer crossing.

Safety tips for rail customers

1. Always stand behind the the warning line on the platform when waiting for a train.
2. Never stand on train tracks.
3. Keep arms and legs free of doors so they don't close down on them; trains run constantly and another will follow. Don't force the doors open once they've closed.
4. Bikes, skateboards and roller blades are too dangerous to be permitted around the waiting areas.
5. Try not to run in a train station, especially on the platform.
6. Plan ahead by being aware of the train schedule. Know the arrival and departure times for all connections. This way you can avoid waiting and long lines.
7. Do not bring food onto the train, and use a garbage bin to dispose of any garbage.
8. Avoid injury by staying in your seat on the train. If you do stand, use a handrail to avoid injury during abrupt stops.
9. Passengers with strollers should board near the front of the car to be visible to the operator.
10. In the evening, travel near the front of the train to be closer to the operator.
11. In case of emergency, use the intercom on the platform to be connected with the rail control center, or use the pay phone to call 9-1-1. Intercoms are also located near the front and back doors of the train, which can be used to call the train operator.

Safety tips for pedestrians

1. Cross the tracks only at marked pedestrian crosswalks. It's not only unsafe but also illegal to cross the tracks in unmarked areas.
2. Light-rail trains are quiet. Look both ways before using a pedestrian crosswalk, even if a train has just passed. There could be a second train coming.
3. Never step on the track. Walk scooters, skateboards or bikes across them.

Safety tips for motorists

1. Never try to beat a train at a crossing.
2. When you see warning lights at a crossing STOP.
3. Unlike at freight train crossings, it only takes seconds for a light-rail train to pass until you can cross safely.
4. Never assume you know when and where to expect a train. Expect a train at any time, on any track, from either direction.
5. Don't cross until you can see both tracks clearly.

Copyright ©

An attorney or lawyer in Minneapolis MN at the law firm of Schwebel Goetz and Sieben can provide you with an experienced train accident lawyer or attorney.