FRA Develops Model State Legislation to Improve Safety at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings

U.S. Department of Transportation
January 7, 2011

DOT 03-11
Friday, January 7, 2011

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), together with states, developed model state legislation for use in developing bills to improve safety at highway-rail grade crossings without gates or barriers. The model legislation is intended to help states address obstructions limiting a driver’s view of an oncoming train. Between 2001 and 2005, accident reports submitted by railroads to FRA show that 689 collisions resulting in 242 injuries and 87 fatalities occurred at highway-rail grade crossings with sight obstructions. Development of the model state legislation was required by the Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008. The model legislation is available at http://www.fra.dot.gov/Pages/1730.shtml. Contact: Rob Kulat (202) 493-6024.