How not to get hit by a train in Miami. Hint: Don’t do anything illegal or stupid

The county mayor and area police departments have tried to get a simple message across to South Florida drivers: Don’t ignore railroad safety measures.

Railroad safety is important for all trains, especially in the case of a Brightline train that travels 79 mph.

Flashing lights, a lowering gate and sometimes a loud blaring horn indicate a train is coming.

MORE: See video and a timeline of Brightline crashes: How and where did they happen?

Here are safety tips for drivers to avoid collisions on the tracks:

▪ The train you see is closer and faster-moving than you think.

▪ Be aware that trains cannot stop quickly.

▪ Never drive around lowered gates — it’s illegal and deadly.

▪ Do not get trapped on the tracks; go through a railroad crossing only if you are sure you can completely clear it without stopping.

▪ If your car stalls on the tracks, get out and get away from the tracks, even if you do not see a train. Find the Emergency Notification System sign and call the number, telling them about your stalled car. Or call 911.

▪ At multi-track crossing waiting for a train to pass, watch out for a second train on the other tracks, approaching from either direction.

▪ Pedestrians who need to cross train tracks should go to a designated crossing, look both ways, and cross the tracks quickly, without stopping.