Train Safety Reminders After Man Killed In Fabens, Texas

The accident in Fabens, Texas on Sunday was a sad reminder that people have to be vey careful around train tracks and crossings. Here are some things to remember.

A 24 year old man was walking near train tracks in Fabens Sunday when he was hit by a passing train. Witnesses said he seemed unaware of the approaching train.

His clothing and electronics apparently prevented him from hearing the train and several warning blasts from its horn.

According to an El Paso Times article, the trains engineer and its operator both said the man was "wearing a hoodie over his head and headphones". They said he didn't react to any of several warning blasts from the train's horn which, as we all know, is really loud.

Some friends and I were partying way out in the desert once and a train came by that was almost unnoticeable until it got really close. Our conversation and loud music covered it up until it was directly passing us. We were a good distance away from the tracks which, not being from the area, I didn't even realize were there.

The tragedy in Fabens is a reminder that trains and train crossings can be very dangerous. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:

• Never walk on tracks. It's not only dangerous, it's illegal.
• Trains are wider than the tracks so stay at least 15 feet away from the tracks.
• Freight trains don't run on a set schedule so always expect one to come along.
• Trains can take over a mile to stop completely, don't expect it to brake in time to avoid you or your vehicle.

Read more tips here and remember to never have any of your senses "dulled" or impaired by things like headphones, eye coverings, etc. Also, be extra careful when visibility is low due to weather or after dark.