Governor Jared Polis has declared September 15 to 21 as “See Tracks? Think Train Week” in Colorado, aiming to raise awareness about rail safety for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. The campaign is a joint effort by the Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC), the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), Operation Lifesaver, and other organizations.
“A train traveling at 55 MPH requires a mile to stop – the length of more than 17 football fields. Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians can avoid crashes at rail crossings by simply slowing down and taking time to ensure there is safe passage,” said PUC Director Rebecca White. “As the PUC expands its oversight of rail safety, we are proud to partner with CDOT and Operation Lifesaver to remind Coloradans to make safe crossings to get home safe.”
Recent data shows that in 2024, there were 46 train-related crashes in Colorado resulting in 24 injuries and one death. In 2025 so far, two fatalities and five injuries have occurred in 32 incidents. Most of these accidents happened at crossings equipped with active warnings such as gates or alarms. Authorities stress that ignoring these signals increases risk.
“Whether you’re in a car, on a bike, walking, or traveling by any other mode, never try to beat a train,” said Shoshana Lew, Executive Director of CDOT. “We remind all travelers to pay attention to the warning signs at railroad crossings and stay on the lookout for trains. These simple steps can be life-saving.”
Colorado has both active warning crossings—those with lights and gates—and passive crossings without such features. There are currently 784 active warning crossings and 960 passive warning ones across the state. Rural areas tend to have more passive crossings where motorists must be especially vigilant.
RTD General Manager and CEO Debra A. Johnson noted RTD’s responsibility: “RTD operates 10 rail lines on more than 114 miles of track throughout the Denver metro region. Across our rail network, the agency’s team carries an awesome responsibility to safely transport the most important thing in life, which is people. The need to conduct oneself in a safe manner around railroad crossings and train tracks is paramount to all customers we serve within the communities our trains travel.”
Chad Sundem, BNSF Vice President of Safety, emphasized cooperation: “Working with the communities we serve and spreading awareness to remain vigilant around all railroad tracks as a pedestrian, driver or passenger is important… Grade crossing incidents are preventable, and our collaborative efforts will get us to that point.”
Col. Matthew C. Packard from the Colorado State Patrol explained: “While less common than most crashes we see, train and vehicle crashes are known to cause extensive damage due to the speed, size and weight involved… Drivers should use extra caution before crossing any tracks and respect railroad crossing signals, including lights, bells, and barriers.”
Each year across North America about 2,100 people are killed or seriously injured near tracks or trains—often at grade-level crossings—and someone is hit by a train every three hours on average in the United States.
Rod Doerr from Union Pacific Railroad stated: “Rail Safety Week is an important reminder that staying safe around railroad tracks and crossings takes all of us… In Colorado and across our 23-state network, we urge everyone to stay alert, follow crossing signals and never try to beat a train. One moment of caution can save a life.”
Crashes often result when motorists drive around lowered gates or become distracted near tracks; pedestrians also face risks if trespassing on railways.
Greg Fulton from Colorado Motor Carriers Association added: “The highest priority for our industry along with our railroad partners is safety. We encourage our truck drivers and other motorists to be alert, exercise caution, and comply with all signage at grade crossings. Better to be patient and safe than risk your life and others.”
Trains always have right-of-way under law because they cannot stop quickly or swerve.
The PUC’s Office of Rail Safety works statewide on freight-rail worker safety issues while CDOT’s Division of Transit & Rail manages planning for transit integration—including projects like Mountain & Front Range Passenger Rail—and oversees maintenance programs supporting regional surface projects.
