A train is approaching and you have left your stalled car on the tracks. Which direction does the manual tell you to run?
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A.
In the same direction the train is heading, away from it
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B.
Toward the oncoming train, off to the side of the tracks Correct
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C.
Perpendicular to the tracks, in the safer of two directions
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D.
Toward the closest ditch, whichever way it is
The answer is "Toward the oncoming train, off to the side of the tracks"
The manual sends you toward the train, staying to the side of the tracks, so that flying debris from the impact is thrown behind you rather than into your path. Option A is the trap: the flight instinct sends drivers away from the train, straight into the direction the debris is thrown when the train hits.
The traps in the wrong answers
A. In the same direction the train is heading, away from it
The manual sends you toward the train, not away, because debris travels in the same direction the train is moving. This answer follows the flight instinct away from the train, straight into the direction the debris is thrown.
C. Perpendicular to the tracks, in the safer of two directions
The manual sends you along the tracks toward the train, not perpendicular across open ground. This answer picks a general 'get away' path over the direction the manual actually names.
D. Toward the closest ditch, whichever way it is
The ditch may be on the wrong side of the tracks; the manual picks direction by debris path, not distance. This answer optimizes for cover instead of clearing the debris field, though the manual's rule is about debris.
This question tests your knowledge of Emergencies in Texas. Source: Texas Driver Manual, "Additional Safe Driving Procedures at Railroad Crossings," p.22..
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