A serious collision between a pickup truck and a train in rural Knox County, Illinois, sent one driver to the hospital with severe injuries on Monday evening. The incident is a stark reminder of the importance of railroad safety, especially in areas with limited visibility.
What Happened?
According to the Knox County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to the 200 block of Knox Highway 5 at approximately 6:50 p.m. following reports of a traffic accident involving a train and a pickup truck.
Preliminary findings indicate that the pickup truck struck the train while attempting to cross the tracks. The details of how or why the collision occurred are still under investigation.
Driver Injured, Investigation Underway
The driver of the pickup truck sustained serious injuries and was transported by emergency responders for medical treatment. Authorities have not released the identity of the driver.
No other injuries were reported, and first responders secured the scene and provided immediate assistance.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Knox County Sheriff’s Office. Officials are examining factors such as visibility at the crossing, signage, and whether the driver saw the train in time.
Sheriff’s Office Urges Railroad Safety
Sheriff Jack C. Harlan Jr. issued a reminder to the public about the dangers of railroad crossings, especially in rural areas where tracks may be unmarked or have limited warnings. He emphasized:
“Never assume the track is clear. Always slow down and look both ways before crossing.”
Railroad crossings in less populated parts of the county may lack flashing lights or automatic gates, making it critical for drivers to stay alert and proceed with caution.
Why Rural Railroad Crossings Are Risky
Many rural railroad crossings in Illinois and across the Midwest are passive crossings—meaning they don’t have automatic warning systems. Instead, they rely on signs alone to alert drivers.
Factors that make these crossings especially hazardous include:
Limited visibility due to trees, buildings, or terrain
No flashing lights or crossing arms
Driver distraction or unfamiliarity with the area
In low-light conditions or at night, these risks can increase dramatically.
This tragic incident in Knox County highlights the importance of always being cautious around train tracks. Whether you’re familiar with the route or not, it only takes a moment for a situation to turn dangerous. The Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the crash, and more information may be released in the coming days.
