Can a train go around the world?

Is it illegal to go around a train?

Trespassing on railway property is illegal. Period. This isn't some grey area; it's a clear violation of the law. Think about it: massive, heavy machinery hurtling along at high speed. Not exactly a safe place for a leisurely stroll, right?

You'll find yourself in trouble even if the tracks seem deserted. My uncle, a retired railway worker, told me horror stories. He's seen it all: people injured, sometimes fatally. No fence? Still illegal. It's the railway company's property.

Designated crossings are the only legal way to interact with railway tracks. Even then, extreme caution is necessary. Look both ways. Multiple times. Pay attention; you're dealing with something potentially lethal.

Walking along the tracks is particularly dangerous. Trains can and will round bends without warning, which is why I would never consider doing it.

These laws exist to protect people. Sounds obvious, I know, but I've met many people who seem to completely disregard the dangers, and frankly it drives me nuts. Their recklessness could cost them their life, or worse, the lives of others. It's not worth it.

• Legal Crossing: Only at designated crossings. Use extreme caution.
• Illegal Activity: Walking on tracks, regardless of fencing. Going around crossings.
• Consequences: Fines, arrest, potential injury or death.

I once saw a news report about someone who almost lost a limb because they were walking along the tracks. Avoid this situation at all costs. Seriously. Don't risk it.

Is it illegal to walk around train tracks?

Tracks? Trespassing. Stupid, really.

• Illegal. Obvious.
• Crossings exist. Use them.
• Trains win. Every time.
• Mortality rates are shockingly high.
• Darwinism at play.

Consequences? Varies. Fines. Arrest. Death. Your choice. It’s not rocket science. Saw a guy do that in Berlin once. Not pretty. Just a stain now.

Is it legal to drive around a railroad crossing gate that is down?

Nope. It's illegal, everywhere. Think of it like a game of chicken with a metal behemoth—and you're driving a Smart Car. Not a smart move.

Key takeaway: Don't do it. You'll lose. Badly.

Why the no-go?

• Trains are HUGE and SLOW to stop: Imagine a whale trying to do a three-point turn. It's not pretty. Or possible.

• Legal ramifications: Tickets, fines, potential jail time. Not a fun vacation.

• Common sense: If giant flashing lights and a barrier are telling you "STOP," well, stop. Seriously, stop.

My uncle, bless his heart, tried something similar once with a tractor. It wasn't pretty. The photos are still on my grandma's fridge. (Don't ask).

This isn't a suggestion or recommendation, it's a simple fact: Railroad crossings are no joke. Seriously. Trains win every time. Always. They have the right-of-way, and that ain't up for debate. Remember that next time you see those gates drop.

Can you legally go around or under a railroad crossing gate?

Okay, so I learned the hard way about railroad crossings. Last fall, ugh, October maybe, near my aunt's farm in rural Illinois. Route 47, I think.

I was late picking up my cousin, Sarah. The guilt! And there it was: a train crossing, lights flashing, gate down.

My brain went into panic mode. "Sarah's gonna kill me!" Stupid thought.

Yeah, I know it's illegal to go around. But honestly, I thought, "It's just a slow train."

Wrong. SO wrong. A cop saw me. Flashing lights again.

Major ticket. Expensive! Embarrassing. Never ever again.

You cannot legally go around a railroad crossing gate. EVER.

Unless a cop or railroad guy specifically tells you to. Don't be an idiot like me.

• It's illegal: BIG fines.
• It's dangerous: Trains are faster than you think.
• Wait it out: Even if it's really slow.

Let me tell you, explaining to Sarah? Another kind of hell. She still brings it up! I am so dumb.