Automated technology for rail-based highway-rail grade crossing surveying

High-profile highway-rail crossings (HPGCs), often referred to as 'humped crossings,' present very serious and highly-consequential potential dangers to both railroads and motor carriers. The hazard is most commonly manifested when low-clearance trucks bottom out on these crossings and become stuck or immobilized across the tracks. This is often referred to as a 'hang-up.' Once a situation like this occurs, little can be done to prevent a train-truck collision. Some states have undertaken efforts to prevent hangups; however, multiple challenges have prevented significant progress from being made. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), in cooperation with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), is continuing previous efforts in this area by initiating a study in order to prevent such events.