SUV Driver Narrowly Escapes UTA Train Collision in Layton, Utah
A newly released video captures the heart-stopping moments leading up to a collision between an SUV and a Utah Transit Authority (UTA) passenger train in Layton, Utah. The incident occurred at a railroad crossing last week, with the driver of the SUV miraculously escaping before the train slammed into the vehicle.
Video Footage from Inside the Locomotive
The video, obtained from inside the locomotive, provides a chilling perspective of the events that unfolded. As the train barreled down the tracks towards the railroad crossing, a white SUV could be seen partially obstructing the track. The train operator’s voice can be heard exclaiming, "Oh, come on," as the train horn blares from hundreds of yards away.
Chronology of Events from Security Camera Footage
Another view of the crash, captured by security cameras nearby, offers a comprehensive timeline of the incident. The driver of the SUV is seen approaching the railroad crossing as the red lights flash and the gate arm lowers. Instead of stopping before reaching the gate arm, the white SUV is pushed from behind by a white pickup truck and continues through, nearly clipping the bottom of the gate and crossing onto the tracks.
The driver then applies the brakes abruptly, coming to a halt with the rear wheels still in between the two rails. The vehicle is then put into reverse, hitting the gate arm and coming to a stop with the front wheels now blocking part of the tracks. The driver continues to reverse, pushing the gate arm back before coming to a complete stop. The driver exits the car and quickly walks away.
Moments later, the train approaches the intersection and smashes into the vehicle, sending it spinning into the gate arm and its post, and completely destroying the front end of the SUV.
Statement from UTA Public Information Officer
UTA public information officer Gavin Gustafson expressed relief that everyone escaped the incident without injuries. He acknowledged that it is easy to scrutinize the driver’s actions in hindsight, but emphasized the overwhelming stress and shock they likely experienced at the moment of the collision.
"I’m certainly not going to second-guess them in the heat of the moment," Gustafson said. "And sometimes, the view might be blocked by something else, you don’t want to pull forward if there is another train coming."
Gustafson also noted that the collision caused over $100,000 in damage to the train. The gate and crossing post were also damaged, though the latter was repaired within 24 hours with assistance from the city of Layton.
Conclusion
The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the critical importance of obeying traffic laws and being aware of one’s surroundings when approaching railroad crossings. It highlights the potential for catastrophic consequences when these precautions are not taken. While the driver of the SUV escaped the collision unharmed, the damage to the train and infrastructure underscores the financial and logistical impact of such accidents.
