Grade Crossings & Trespassers -
Organizational Culture & Safety Performance
Program Description:
Motorist behavior may be the single, most important element in grade crossing accidents, and many aspects of motorist behavior are determined by the cultural norms of U.S. society. For instance, our legal system allows motorists to sue railroads for grade crossing accidents that are clearly the responsibility of the motorist (e.g., driving into the side of a train). In Japan, the legal system assumes such accidents are the fault of the motorist and imposes severe penalties for such accidents. U.S. culture is intolerant of delay, potentially contributing to motorists driving around lowered gates. Such behavior is not seen in Europe where motorists have been observed to read books while waiting for gates to be raised. As noted previously, culture, defined as shared values, norms and perceptions that are expressed as common expectations, assumptions and views of rationality within a society, plays a critical role in safety. This subprogram focuses on ways to enhance grade crossing safety by encouraging the development of a positive safety culture among motorists.
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