Advancing Pedestrian Safety at Rail Grade Crossings

Contrary to the declining number of fatalities due to train-vehicle collisions at highway-rail grade crossings, the number of pedestrian and bicycle fatalities at highway- and pathway-rail grade crossings has remained relatively unchanged in the last ten years. While engineering solutions and education and enforcements initiatives have been proposed and implemented, little is known as to their effectiveness to mitigate such incidents. This paper reports on findings from the literature and discussions with professionals in the public and private sectors involved in safety at rail grade crossings. The paper highlights the multitude of factors related to pedestrian safety in this context, and provides an informed discussion for stakeholders to advance safety initiatives.

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