1. Local

Phoenix Light Rail - Tips For Taking the Train

By , About.com Guide

7 of 10

Driving Near METRO Light Rail Tracks and Stations
Driving Near Light Rail

Pay Attention to Signs, Signals and Sounds When Driving Near Light Rail

© 2009 Judy Hedding

To assist passengers getting to and from light rail stations, crosswalks with traffic signals have been installed along the route. Drivers need to be aware of these signals and be prepared to stop for passengers using these crosswalks.

Drivers should be prepared to stop quickly around light rail stations to avoid people who are jaywalking (even though they shouldn't be) to get to and from the stations.

All four-way intersections along the light rail route are now equipped with left turn traffic control lights. Drivers can, depending upon the intersection, make left turns and U-turns at these intersections when the green arrow is lit. Be aware of signs at individual intersections for restrictions. Drivers in the left turn lanes should not proceed into the intersection if a red arrow is displayed.

Drivers should not stop on light rail tracks for any reason. Complete your turn as soon as possible to avoid obstructing the tracks. There have been collisions between trains and motor vehicles for a variety of reasons, and the trains are not able to stop as quickly as other vehicles nor can they swerve out of the way.

Be mindful of the curbs separating light rail tracks from streets especially in left turn lanes. The curbs are high enough to be useful as a warning to drivers that they are too close to the tracks, but in many places along the route they are low enough to be jumped by the average passenger car. Cars that jump the curb may become stuck and sustain considerable damage.

Pay attention - METRO light rail trains generally run very quietly. They do flash their headlights and sound their horns and/or bells upon approaching or leaving light rail stations and when nearing major intersections.

All restrictions and conditions are subject to change without notice.

Readers Respond: Phoenix Light Rail

©2013 About.com. All rights reserved.