[Train bells and whistle]
NARRATOR: With higher speeds coming to Michigan passenger trains,
and four major railroads and about 20 shortline railroads currently operating in the state,
drivers need to pay close attention when they approach a railroad crossing.
Don't ever take a chance at a railroad crossing.
Slow down.
Obey the signs and signals.
If the lights are flashing and/or the gates are activated, you are required to stop.
The lights and gates are there to save your life.
State law prohibits a motorist from driving around crossing gates when they are lowered.
The consequences can be tragic.
JEFF CAMPBELL: "This accident definitely could have been prevented.
The fact that the driver tried to cross the tracks
is what caused the crash.
And that is the easiest way to prevent something like this is
to have drivers just exercise some patience."
NARRATOR: Michigan's 4,800 public train crossings are safe and meet state and federal standards.
About half have automatic warning devices, including lights or gates, or both.
Flashing lights and gates have been installed on all crossings on the Amtrak-owned line
designated for high-speed rail from Kalamazoo west to the state line.
So why do 60 percent of the crashes occur at crossings where there are active warning devices?
People are in a hurry, or they misjudge the speed of a train.
Even if the train engineer sees a car on the track, there's little they can do.
SAM CROWL: "One in particular that I remember
was a driver of a car, coming up on the tracks,
looking at me, as I made eye contact with him, just before impact.
The driver was killed."
NARRATOR: Here are some very important facts about trains -
facts that could save your life or the lives of your loved ones.
It can take a mile or more for a train going 55 miles per hour to stop, once the emergency brakes are applied.
That's 18 football fields!
The train you see is faster-moving and closer than you think.
If you see a train approaching, wait for it to go by before you proceed across the tracks.
Passenger and freight trains use the same tracks
but travel at different speeds.
Don't fool yourself that you can determine the speed of a train.
[Train roaring by]
Here are more crossing safety tips from Operation Lifesaver:
Focus your attention and follow the law.
Hang up your phone, remove earphones, turn down music,
and don't text, e-mail, or use social media while driving or walking near tracks.
Do not get trapped on the tracks.
Proceed through a crossing only if you're sure you can completely clear it without stopping.
Always expect a train at any crossing.
Trains can come from either direction, at any time.
Look and listen for a train as you approach every crossing
and be prepared to stop if needed.
Remember, the life you save may be your own.
[Train crossing bells]