Think Safety Near Trains and Tracks

Tragically, two individuals have been killed in 2026 after being struck by trains in Las Cruces.

Statistics show that a vehicle, or a pedestrian, is struck by a train nearly every three hours in the U.S.

Operation Lifesaver, GoRail New Mexico and partners across the rail industry dedicate “See Tracks? Think Train Week,” formerly known as Rail Safety Week, as an opportunity to raise awareness about safety near trains and railroad tracks September 21 – 27, 2026.

LCPD, along with rail industry partners, provide these tips to help keep you safe:

• Stay alert, listen and watch for trains when traveling near railroad tracks.
• Stay clear of tracks when trains are approaching.
• Never walk, run, stand or play near railroad tracks and rail bridges. Railroad tracks and trains are private property and trespassing is forbidden.
• Never try boarding or dismounting a moving train.
• Never drive around, under or through a lowered crossing gate.
• Never try racing or beating a moving train to a crossing.
• Watch for the blue and white signs, flashing lights and crossing gates at rail crossings.
• For rail crossings with no gate, approach the tracks with caution and be ready to stop if necessary.
• Buses and vehicles transporting hazardous material are required by law to stop at railroad tracks before crossing. Slow down and use caution when approaching any vehicle stopped at a rail crossing.
• Know your vehicle’s ground clearance and its ability to safely cross when roadways have different elevations on each side of the tracks.
• If a vehicle becomes stuck on or close to a rail, immediately have all passengers exit and move away from the tracks at a 45-degree angle and toward the direction of the approaching train. For example: if the train is traveling south, run north at a 45-degree angle away from the tracks. This helps keep you from being struck by flying debris if the train hits the vehicle.
• Immediately call 911 to report any damaged railroad tracks, crossing gates, or vehicles stalled on or near rails.