A tractor-trailer was struck by a Union Pacific freight train on Friday, October 17 in New Braunfels, Texas. Reports indicate that the truck driver was attempting to beat the southbound train through the railroad crossing. The train stuck the semi-trailer on the passenger side, knocking its trailer off the tracks and into a drainage channel. The truck driver suffered only minor injuries. The accident caused structural damage to the tracks and roadway.
The railroad crossing is only marked with a stop sign. It is not equipped with crossing gates, flashing lights, bells, or any other warning devices.
Trains have the right of way. Last year, there were over 2,000 railroad crossing accidents in the U.S. resulting in about 250 deaths and over 950 serious injuries.
