Texas roads are some of the busiest and most congested of any state in the United States. Keeping the roads safe and clear of obstructions is of the utmost importance for residents of the Lone Star State. One of the major obstacles on the roads of Texas are trains, which often cross roads and block them for long periods of time. So, how long can a train block a road in Texas?
Train Obstructions on Texas Roads
In Texas, train tracks are often built alongside roads, and crossing tracks are not rare. These crossings can often be blocked for extended periods of time when a train passes, causing a major obstruction to traffic. This can be especially problematic for emergency vehicles, which may be delayed in getting to a scene due to a train blocking the way. As such, it is important to understand how long a train can be allowed to block a road in Texas.
The Laws on Train Obstructions in Texas
In Texas, there are laws that are designed to limit the amount of time a train can block a road. According to the Texas Transportation Code, a train is not allowed to block any road for more than five minutes at a time. If the train is delayed for some reason and exceeds this time limit, the railroad company is liable for any damages or delays resulting from the obstruction.
In some cases, the railroad company may be granted an exemption from the five-minute limit if they can demonstrate that the delay is necessary to ensure the safety of the public or the railroad itself. These exemptions must be granted by the Texas Department of Transportation, and they can only be granted in extreme cases.
What to Do if a Train Blocks a Road
If you find yourself stuck behind a train that has blocked a road, the best thing to do is remain calm. Do not attempt to go around the train, as this is both dangerous and illegal. It is also important to not try to cross the tracks, as this can be extremely dangerous. It is best to wait for the train to pass, and then proceed when it has cleared the road.
If you find that the train has been blocking the road for more than five minutes, you may wish to contact the railroad company to inquire about the delay. The company should be able to provide an explanation for the delay, and if the delay is unlawful, they may be liable for any damages or delays that have resulted from their obstruction.
Conclusion
In Texas, trains are allowed to block roads for a maximum of five minutes. If the train is delayed for some reason and exceeds this time limit, the railroad company may be liable for any damages or delays resulting from the obstruction. If you find yourself stuck behind a train that has blocked a road, it is best to remain calm and wait for the train to pass before proceeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum time a train can block a road in Texas?
The maximum time a train can block a road in Texas is five minutes.
What should I do if a train blocks a road in Texas?
If you find yourself stuck behind a train that has blocked a road, it is best to remain calm and wait for the train to pass before proceeding.
What happens if a train blocks a road for more than five minutes?
If the train is delayed for some reason and exceeds the five-minute limit, the railroad company may be liable for any damages or delays resulting from the obstruction.
Can railroad companies be granted an exemption from the five-minute limit?
Yes, in some cases, the railroad company may be granted an exemption from the five-minute limit if they can demonstrate that the delay is necessary to ensure the safety of the public or the railroad itself. These exemptions must be granted by the Texas Department of Transportation.
Is it illegal to go around a train that is blocking a road in Texas?
Yes, it is both dangerous and illegal to go around a train that is blocking a road in Texas.
Can I cross a train track if it is blocking a road in Texas?
No, it is extremely dangerous to try to cross a train track if it is blocking a road in Texas.
What should I do if I have suffered damages or delays due to a train blocking a road?
If you have suffered damages or delays due to a train blocking a road, you may wish to contact the railroad company to inquire about the delay. The company should be able to provide an explanation for the delay, and if the delay is unlawful, they may be liable for any damages or delays that have resulted from their obstruction.
Is it possible to get an exemption from the five-minute limit on train obstructions in Texas?
Yes, in some cases, the railroad company may be granted an exemption from the five-minute limit if they can demonstrate that the delay is necessary to ensure the safety of the public or the railroad itself. These exemptions must be granted by the Texas Department of Transportation.
What is the penalty for exceeding the five-minute limit on train obstructions in Texas?
If the train is delayed for some reason and exceeds the five-minute limit, the railroad company may be liable for any damages or delays resulting from the obstruction.