What does lifting your feet over railroad tracks supposedly do?

Question

You know that weird superstitious thing where you have to lift your feet off the ground when you cross railroad tracks? What does it do? Prevent you from getting hit by a train?

Answer 1

This pertains to the electrified third rail of the subways and elevated trains, not regular tracks.

Answer 2

Well, it's my family tradition, that when you drive over railroad tracks, you make a wish, and supposedly that wish is supposed to come true.

Answer 3

keeps you from tripping on the track

Answer 4

It prevents electrocution and death.  Just in case there is a short between the 3rd rail and the track.

Ever put pennies on the track ?

Answer 5

To me it's just a bunch of fun nonsense.  I heard it was good luck (or maybe bad luck not to pick 'em up.)  With trains being a relatively recent invention, I doubt it's as much an old wives' tale as just a bit of silliness that caught on.

Answer 6

its supposed to be good luck

Answer 7

We used to say your mother would die if you did'nt do it.