Relates to the use of locomotive horns at private highway-rail grade crossings; establishes use of locomotive horn in the locomotive engineer's sole judgment, is appropriate in order to prevent imminent injury, death, or property damage.
Summary
Bill A01145 amends the railroad law in New York regarding the use of locomotive horns at private highway-rail grade crossings. The bill allows locomotive engineers to sound their horns in emergency situations at their discretion to prevent imminent injury, death, or property damage. This replaces the previous requirement that mandated the ringing of bells and blowing of whistles at crossings, thereby giving engineers more autonomy in assessing when to use the horn as a warning signal.
Impact
The bill's passage will modify existing state laws governing railroad operations, specifically at private crossings. By repealing the previous requirement for consistent horn use, it aims to enhance safety by allowing engineers to make judgment calls based on specific circumstances, potentially reducing noise pollution while maintaining safety standards. This change may also affect how private property owners and local communities interact with railroad operations.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill A01145 appears to be generally supportive among transportation safety advocates, who argue that empowering locomotive engineers to make judgment calls can improve safety outcomes. However, there may be concerns from residents living near railroads about the potential for increased accidents if engineers do not sound the horn when necessary.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the balance between safety and noise pollution. Some community members may argue that the bill could lead to less frequent warnings at crossings, increasing the risk of accidents. Conversely, supporters of the bill emphasize the importance of allowing engineers to use their discretion to minimize unnecessary noise while still ensuring safety.
Relates to the use of locomotive horns at private highway-rail grade crossings; establishes use of locomotive horn in the locomotive engineer's sole judgment, is appropriate in order to prevent imminent injury, death, or property damage.
Relating to the disclosure of certain information regarding a record of a collision or violation involving a person operating a railroad locomotive or train.
Relating to the disclosure of certain information regarding a record of a collision or violation involving a person operating a railroad locomotive or train.