A supplementary safety measure (SSM) in transportation refers to a safety system or procedure designed to enhance safety at highway-rail grade crossings. These measures are established by the appropriate traffic control or law enforcement authorities and are recognized as effective alternatives to the use of locomotive horns for preventing accidents at these crossings.
Supplementary safety measures are primarily relevant in the field of transportation law, particularly concerning railroad safety regulations. They are used to mitigate risks at highway-rail grade crossings, which are often sites of accidents. Legal practitioners may encounter SSMs when dealing with cases involving transportation safety, liability, or regulatory compliance. Users can manage related forms or procedures effectively with resources like US Legal Forms, which provides templates drafted by experienced attorneys.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
1. A city implements a traffic light system at a highway-rail grade crossing, which includes flashing lights and gates that lower when a train approaches. This system is approved as a supplementary safety measure to reduce the reliance on locomotive horns.
2. In another instance, a local jurisdiction deploys additional signage and pavement markings to alert drivers of an upcoming crossing. This measure is determined to be effective in preventing accidents and is classified as an SSM. (hypothetical example)
Supplementary safety measures are governed by federal regulations, specifically 49 CFR 222.9, which outlines the criteria and processes for implementing these safety measures at highway-rail grade crossings. Other relevant regulations may include state-specific traffic safety laws.
| State | SSM Regulations |
|---|---|
| California | Has specific guidelines for SSM implementation at crossings. |
| Texas | Requires additional signage and public awareness campaigns as part of SSMs. |
| Florida | Utilizes a combination of traffic signals and gates as SSMs. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Supplementary Safety Measure | A safety system alternative to locomotive horns. | Focuses on enhancing safety at crossings. |
| Locomotive Horn | A sound device used to alert road users of an approaching train. | Traditional warning method, not always effective. |
| Traffic Control Device | Any device used to regulate, warn, or guide traffic. | Broader category that includes SSMs. |
If you are involved in a situation related to a supplementary safety measure, consider the following steps:
Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.
They are safety systems or procedures designed to improve safety at highway-rail grade crossings.