Driver Awareness of Emergency Notification System (ENS) Signage at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings

FRA is interested in understanding more about drivers’ awareness and understanding of the ENS signs posted at highway-rail grade crossings. ENS signs are placed at crossings so that if a driver encounters a malfunctioning crossing or an unsafe condition at a crossing the driver can call the number on the sign and use the posted crossing identification number to report the issue. If a driver were to become stuck on the tracks, the driver can also call the phone number displayed on the ENS sign to notify the railroad. This would help the railroad slow or stop any oncoming train and dispatch individuals who could help safely remove the stuck vehicle. Drivers may also choose to call the ENS number if they believe the crossing signage is damaged or obstructed. The study will help shed light on how drivers react when crossing infrastructure appears to be malfunctioning or when they become stuck on or near the crossing. This study will pay particular attention to whether drivers look for or attempt to make use of the information on the ENS sign. The proposed study will use the FRA Driving Simulator, housed at the Volpe National Transportation System Center, to study driver behavior, including drivers’ potential interaction with the ENS signage, at a variety of gate types and ENS sign orientations. This study will evaluate each participant’s awareness of the ENS sign and the purpose it serves as well as the participant’s response to various functioning and malfunctioning highway-rail grade crossing warning systems.

The latest form for Driver Awareness of Emergency Notification System (ENS) Signage at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings expires 2022-06-30 and can be found here.