At 7:40 a.m. Thursday, a student was struck by a METRORail train while crossing the tracks at Wheeler Avenue, according to a release from the University of Houston Police Department.
The student was then taken in an ambulance to a nearby hospital, UHPD said.
METRO’s police are leading an investigation into the accident, as they control both the tracks and safety infrastructure on campus.
“The safety and well-being of the campus community are our priority, which we have emphasized since METRORail began operations adjacent to the University campus last year,” UHPD said.
UHPD urges students to remember the following safety precautions, which can be found on both the METRORail and UH websites.
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Stop
Do not walk in front of, between or behind the trains.
Trains can start quickly regardless of traffic flow.
Do not drive, stop or park your vehicle on the tracks. It’s dangerous and against the law. -
Look
Always cross the tracks at designated pedestrian crossings and only when it is safe to do so.
Always look both ways before crossing the tracks. Trains travel in both directions.
Always look for and obey all warning devices: flashing lights, signals and crossing gates. Police will ticket violators. -
Listen
Always stay alert. METRORail is quieter than a bus. You may not hear it coming.
Always listen for train horns, whistles and signal bells.
Always follow instructions from workers and police officers. -
And Never…
Never race a train or run in front of a train.
Never try to beat the train to a crossing. Even with a tie you lose.
Never drive around crossing gate arms.
Never stand on or near the tracks.
Never put anything on or near the tracks.
