New Data Reveals Startling Truth About Indiana Railway Dangers

Railroads intersect with highways throughout Indiana, and according to newly released statistics, they present a series of dangers more frightening than you might realize.

As a kid, I was terrified to go near railroad tracks after watching the 1991 movie Fried Green Tomatoes. During the first act of the film, the main character's brother, Buddy Threadgoode, is tragically struck by an oncoming train. I was young when I first saw the movie, so that vivid image stayed with me every time I heard or saw a train pass near my home.

When I got older and learned to drive, that childhood fear gradually faded. The sheer number of railroad crossings in my area made them seem like just another part of daily life. When I moved to Vincennes for college, railroad crossings became as routine as stoplights. However, new data suggests there may be more cause for concern than previously thought.

How Are Trains in Indiana Operated and Regulated?

According to the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT), trains operate under strict speed restrictions that are closely monitored by both the railroads and regulatory agencies. Many freight trains average a mile in length and are granted the right of way because they cannot quickly stop for pedestrians or motorists. In fact, the average freight train, traveling at 55 mph, takes anywhere from 1 to 1.5 miles to come to a complete stop.

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Dangers Posed by Railroad Crossings in Indiana

Most railroad crossings in the U.S. have automatic gates that block crossings during the approach of an oncoming train. Federal law also requires trains to sound their horns at all highway-rail grade crossings. Unfortunately, not all drivers pay attention to these warnings or simply ignore them. For example, a man was killed in Indianapolis in December 2024 after attempting to go around a set of crossing gates in front of an oncoming train.

Indiana Railroad Fatalities Among the Worst in America

According to the rail safety education resource Operation Lifesaver, Indiana is now the fourth-highest state for railroad fatalities in the country. In 2024 alone, there were 95 such collisions, with 29 related injuries and 10 fatalities. This new data provides even more reason to adhere to the safety guidelines put in place by federal authorities and INDOT. While waiting for a train may take a few minutes, it’s a far better price to pay than risking your life.