The Department of Transportation is getting tough on CDL Drivers who violate railroad crossing regulations; this is due to an Amtrack crash in Bourbonais, Illinois recently.  According to the Federal Highway Administration statistics, there are more than nine truck-train collisions per week.  You should be aware of increased enforcement regarding railroad crossing safety, as well as the new rules which now apply.

The six new violations are:
1.    Failure to make a required stop before nonexempt railroad tracks;
2.    Failure to slow down and check for a train approaching;
3.    Failing to stop if a train is coming;
4.    Getting caught on the tracks for lack of sufficient space to clear the crossing;
5.    Failure to obey a railroad signal or the directions of an official at a crossing;
6.    Getting hung up on the tracks because of insufficient ground clearance.

PENALTIES for ignoring any of the six new rules are very expensive.  Employers are subject to fines up to $10,000.  Drivers will lose their Commercial License for 60 days on the first conviction, 120 days on the second conviction, and one year for a third conviction (within 3 years).

Required Truck Equipment and Placarding is regulated by each state, either 4-way flashers or a placard with language such as:

This Vehicle STOPS at All Railroad Crossings   

Mountain AIre's ITEM ID: PVRR
List Price $8.94 each *** Dealer's Discount $7.15 each