摘要: |
On July 23, 2007, about 12:30 p.m. Central Standard Time (CST), northbound Norfolk Southern (NS) Maintenance of Way (M of W) Mark III Tamper, which was operating on the NS main track, struck a tractor/trailer truck that was operating over a private highway-rail grade crossing. The accident occurred near Thomasville, Alabama (AL) at milepost (MP) NS 48.3 on the NS Alabama Division. The tractor/trailer truck was loaded with logs and was traveling east on the private road crossing when it was struck by the tamper. The tamper was operated by an NS track machine operator (operator) and was traveling north on the NS main track at an estimated speed of 20 miles per hour (mph) when the impact occurred. As a result of the collision, the tractor/trailer struck three parked unoccupied automobiles. After the collision, the operator was transported by ambulance to Southwest Alabama Medical Center in Thomasville. He was examined and released. The tractor/trailer driver refused treatment. The crossing was protected by cross bucks and a stop sign. There was no track or signal damage. Damage to the tamper is estimated at $28,500. At the time of the accident, it was daylight and sunny with a temperature of 89F. Probable Cause The operator of the Mark III Tamper did not approach the private highway grade crossing prepared to stop. He should not have entered the road crossing unless he knew the way was clear. Contributing Cause: Highway user inattentiveness. |