Can rain wash away the support grade around railroad tracks, potentially getting your truck stuck?

Rain can indeed wash away the support grade around railroad tracks, which may lead to unstable ground conditions for vehicles, including trucks. The support grade is the earthen embankment or surrounding area that provides stability to the tracks. When heavy rainfall occurs, it can erode the soil, leading to a significant risk of washouts or slides that diminish the integrity of the ground.

If the support grade is compromised, a truck could become stuck or unstable, presenting hazards not just for the vehicle but for the surrounding area as well. This is a crucial consideration for truck drivers when navigating areas near railroad tracks, especially during or after rain. It's important to be aware of these risks in various weather conditions, not just in extreme situations or limited time frames such as winter or heavy rainfall, as the effects of rain can vary in severity based on the amount and duration of precipitation.