when sharing the road with a trolley or light rail vehicle

Championisme authors

3 min read

·

19-10-2024

28

0

Share

Sharing the Road with Trolley and Light Rail Vehicles: Staying Safe and Keeping Traffic Flowing

Trolley and light rail vehicles (LRVs) add a unique element to urban landscapes, providing efficient public transportation. However, sharing the road with these vehicles requires awareness and understanding of specific safety precautions. This article aims to guide drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians on how to safely navigate alongside trolley and light rail systems.

Understanding the Unique Challenges:

• Limited Maneuverability: LRVs operate on fixed tracks, limiting their ability to swerve or stop quickly. This is a key factor to consider when deciding how to interact with these vehicles.
• Length and Weight: Trolleys and LRVs are significantly longer and heavier than most vehicles, making collisions potentially more serious.
• Blind Spots: LRVs have large blind spots, particularly on the sides and in front. This can make it difficult for operators to see pedestrians, cyclists, or vehicles, especially when turning.

Safety Tips for Drivers:

1. Always yield the right-of-way:

• Drivers are legally required to yield to LRVs crossing an intersection.
• "Right-of-way" means: "The privilege of having the immediate use of the roadway." - Source: NHTSA
• Failure to yield can lead to a collision and potential legal consequences.

2. Beware of the "Quiet Zone":

• LRVs are often quieter than other vehicles, making them harder to hear.
• "Quiet Zones" are designated areas where train horns are not required.
• Stay vigilant and be prepared to stop, even if you don't see or hear an approaching vehicle.

3. Maintain a safe distance:

• "Keep at least 10 feet away from the tracks." - Source: Federal Transit Administration
• This buffer allows for safe passing and minimizes the risk of being hit by a LRV.

4. Never drive around lowered gates:

• Lowered gates indicate an approaching LRV.
• "Never drive around lowered gates, even if you do not see an approaching train." - Source: National Transportation Safety Board
• Driving around lowered gates puts you and others at extreme risk.

Safety Tips for Cyclists:

1. Ride in the designated bike lane:

• Where available, use the bike lane to separate yourself from LRVs.
• "Ride on the right side of the road, facing traffic." - Source: League of American Bicyclists
• This allows you to see approaching LRVs and gives them space to operate safely.

2. Exercise caution at crossings:

• "Always stop and look both ways before crossing tracks." - Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
• Look for approaching LRVs and wait for them to pass before proceeding.

3. Be aware of blind spots:

• Be particularly cautious when passing an LRV, as it may have a blind spot on its side.
• "If you must ride next to a train, do so only at a slow speed and be prepared to stop suddenly." - Source: American Public Transportation Association

Safety Tips for Pedestrians:

1. Cross at designated crosswalks:

• Use designated crosswalks and intersections for safe crossing.
• "Never cross the tracks except at designated crosswalks." - Source: Federal Railroad Administration

2. Stay alert and watch for approaching LRVs:

• Look both ways before crossing and remain alert while walking near the tracks.
• "Pay attention to your surroundings and listen for approaching trains." - Source: National Transportation Safety Board
• Avoid distractions and keep your eyes on the track.

3. Use caution at stations:

• Be aware of the platform edge and avoid getting too close to the tracks.
• "Stay behind the yellow line at the platform edge." - Source: American Public Transportation Association
• Follow station signage and instructions.

Sharing the road with trolley and light rail vehicles requires extra caution and awareness. By following these safety tips, you can help ensure your own safety and the smooth operation of these vital transportation systems.