Peter Jaskiewicz

On September 11^th, 2019, a male was struck and killed by a train on the tracks near the West Trenton SEPTA station. He was struck around 8:30 p.m. by a train headed to Center City Philadelphia that did not have time to stop before contact was made. As a result, service was suspended from West Trenton until the following morning.

This incident was an example of rail trespassing, or when someone crosses the tracks illegally. According to the Federal Railroad Administration, trespassing along railroad rights-of-way is the leading cause of rail-related deaths in America. Rail trespassing led to 270 fatalities in 2018, leading the railroad grade crossing collisions to rise to 4.3 percent.

Since Penn State Abington is close to Center City Philadelphia, it might encourage students to commute by train to the Jenkintown or Rydal stations and come to campus by shuttle bus or van. However, students should realize the risks rail trespassing has for anyone.

Trains and trolleys can be surprisingly quiet, especially when there is snow on the ground, or the weather is damp. If a train is approaching and you are listening to music or looking down on your phone, it may already be too late.

You might think a train could stop before it hits you. While it can, it will not ensure your safety. Unlike cars on the road, trains do not cause much friction when stopping since there is little contact between the tracks and the wheels. Also, trains cannot move away from pedestrians. Since the tracks limit their movement in a single direction, they cannot turn away as cars can. Trains also can be faster than you think. Even if you see them far away, they can get to you in seconds.

If you think you’re safe in your car, think again. It does not matter what vehicle you use. The train will win regardless of the vehicle in its way. You are better off waiting for the train to cross than trying to beat it.

Even if you do survive, you are bound to face civil penalties. Some penalties can cost you fines ranging from $100 to $1,000, but jail time is also possible depending on the state the incident occurs in. In the case of Pennsylvania, the penalty is four points for your license and a fine up to $500.

So how can you prevent deaths from rail trespassing? Simple. Remain on the platform when waiting for the train. Do not go where you are not supposed to at the station. If you need to get to the other side of the station, look for signs that lead to a designated path for getting there. When waiting for a train, remain behind the yellow line on the platform until the train comes to a complete stop. Be aware that trains may be delayed or come earlier than expected at times. But most of all, follow the rules at the station.

Rail trespassing is a life or death situation. It is not worth your life to risk crossing the tracks where you should not. The things you use everyday cost money, but your life does not. So I ask you to do your part and respect the train.