What direction do you run away from a train if you get stuck on the tracks?

When running away from a vehicle stuck on tracks, run away from the tracks at an angle in the direction of the approaching train. If a train is not approaching when a vehicle is stuck on the tracks, be sure to get yourself and all other passengers out of the vehicle and to a safe location.



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But some experts say there is a particular direction you should try to run: Away from the tracks at a 45 degree angle, in the direction from which the train is coming. “That actually means run toward the train,” said Joyce Rose, president of Operation Lifesaver, a nonprofit rail safety education group.

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Stop, look both ways, and listen. Know that trains always have the right of way. Don't stop on the tracks. Make sure you have room to get across.

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The only safe place to cross railroad tracks is at a designated public crossing. Do not cross the tracks immediately after a train passes. A second train might be blocked by the first. Trains can come from either direction.

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If your vehicle stalls or gets stuck on the tracks, do the following: Get yourself and any other passengers out of the vehicle immediately. If a train is coming, get out immediately and move quickly toward the oncoming train and away from the tracks at a 45-degree angle.

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If your car stalls on a track, quickly get everyone out — even if you don't see a train coming. Run away from the tracks and your car to avoid being hit by flying debris. Call the number on the blue emergency notification system sign. If the sign is not visible to you, call 911.

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The middle of the train is by far the safest for persons. The National Transportation Safety Board does not release comprehensive data on where victims were sitting during fatal train accidents, though some details are available in individual investigative reports.

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It's illegal to walk on the tracks unless you're at a designated crossing. It's extremely dangerous to walk, run, or drive down the railroad tracks or even alongside them. Trains travel in both directions and at all times of day and night. You never know when a train might be heading your way.

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