(The Houston Chronicle posted the following article on its website on January 31.)
HOUSTON — The Federal Railroad Administration published new rules this month designed to make it easier for motorists to see approaching trains at grade crossings.
Reflective materials will have to be installed on the sides of locomotives and freight rail cars as a safety measure to make trains more visible, according to the new regulation from the FRA.
Nearly one-quarter of all highway rail grade-crossing collisions involve motor vehicles running into trains occupying the crossings, according to the administration. The large size and dark colors of freight trains can make them hard to see, especially at night.
“The reflective material will help reduce the number and severity of this type of accident by giving motorists an additional visual warning of the presence of a train,” according to a statement issued by the FRA. It takes effect March 4.
Railroads must install yellow or white reflective materials on all equipment within 10 years.