The Great Train Standoff: How Long Can They Really Block You in Michigan?
Ah, Michigan. Land of the Great Lakes, delicious cherries, and... trains that like to take their sweet time blocking roads. We've all been there, tapping our toes impatiently while a seemingly endless freight train sprawls across the intersection like a stubborn metal centipede. But how long is too long? When can you legally declare the train a public nuisance and demand tiny train conductors with roller skates?
The Law Lays Down the Tracks (See What We Did There?)
Believe it or not, Michigan actually has laws about this kind of thing. In bold lettering for all to see, the law states that a train can't block traffic for more than 5 minutes. That's right, 5 whole minutes! Enough time to sing the chorus of "Free Bird" twice, but not quite enough to write a novel.
There are a few wiggle room exceptions, though. The train gets a pass if:
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- It's movin' on up (or down the tracks) at a decent clip of at least 10 mph for no more than 7 minutes. Basically, if it's scooting along, it can block you for a little longer.
- There's a verifiable reason for the delay, like a train tumbleweed situation (we're picturing a bunch of empty boxcars scattered across the tracks), a mechanical malfunction, or something else equally unforeseeable.
But Wait, There's More! (Because Traffic Laws Love Fine Print)
The fun doesn't stop there. The law also frowns upon railroads playing railroad games with traffic lights. They can't activate the crossing lights for more than 2 minutes if there's no train coming within the next 20-60 seconds. That's just rude!
So, You're Stuck at a Crossing. Now What?
Tip: Train your eye to catch repeated ideas.
- Channel your inner zen. Deep breaths, people. Trains are inevitable.
- Bust out the tunes. Crank up some jams and make it a rolling karaoke party (just don't sing too loud, you might annoy your fellow captives).
- Become a trainspotter. Name the different types of cars, count the wheels, ponder the mysterious cargo. You might even discover a hidden passion!
- Use the time wisely. Catch up on podcasts, plan your grocery list, mentally rehearse your killer karaoke rendition.
How-To FAQ for the Train-Trapped Traveler
How to determine if a train is breaking the law?
Well, unless you're packing a stopwatch, it's tough to say definitively. But if you're stuck for longer than 5 minutes and the train isn't moving or there's no obvious reason for the delay, you can always contact the local authorities.
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How to avoid getting stuck at train crossings?
Plan your route ahead of time and check for known railroad crossings. Some apps even offer real-time train tracking (because yes, there's an app for everything).
How to be the ultimate train crossing zen master?
QuickTip: Read section by section for better flow.
Pack some snacks, have a playlist ready, and cultivate an appreciation for the simple beauty of watching a giant metal snake inch its way down the tracks.
How to politely express your annoyance to a train conductor?
Let's be honest, yelling at a train probably won't do much. However, a strongly worded letter to the railroad company expressing your concerns might get a response.
How to become a professional train conductor and control the trains yourself?
This might be a long shot, but hey, stranger things have happened (though train conductor school probably isn't on Duolingo yet).
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