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More than 440 people died last year trying to beat a train according to the National Railroad Association. An incident in Ringgold, Georgia in September was no different.
The incident occurred on Julian Street on September 13th. Georgia State Patrol confirmed that an elderly man lost his life while trying to beat a train and cross the tracks.
The GSP said that the 63-year-old driver tried to cross the tracks despite the flashing red lights warning him that a train was coming.
The State Patrol also said that the man had been waiting behind a long line of cars turning on Graysville Road. He became impatient and decided to go around the line. He passed the stop sign, flashing lights, and crossing arms in an attempt to beat the train. He did not make it in time.
Local resident Jeff England has lived across the street from the train tracks for over thirty years. He says he’s lost count of the number of accidents that he has witnessed.
The train pushed the man’s car more than 1,400 feet before coming to a stop. The elderly driver was the only occupant in the vehicle at the time of the incident. No other injuries were reported.
England also said that CSX could do more to protect motorists. “As much money as CSX has, they could afford better equipment to protect people from going around those arms. Those arms should go all the way across the crossing, and not just halfway on each side,” he said.
If you have been injured in an accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact the “Strong Arm” attorneys at the law offices of John Foy & Associates. We may be able to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today.
