Operation Save a Life: Stop at Railroad Crossings

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Story Published: Aug 7, 2008 at 6:37 PM MST

Story Updated: Nov 21, 2008 at 12:19 AM MST

By Jennifer McGraw

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IDAHO FALLS- Car accidents are common, but what about collisions between trains and cars? You may remember we had a tragic one this summer.

You know these can be prevented. Today police set up a sting to stop drivers who are breaking the rules and putting lives on the line at railroad crossings.

We went up and down the tracks from Idaho Falls to Rigby and along each crossing it was shocking to see how many people take a risk and drive right in front of the train.

When you hear the horns and see the flashing lights, be prepared to stop. The consequences for not stopping could end in tragedy or if you're lucky just a citation.

"The bottom line is, it's not worth the risk to the public, to themselves to the engineers on the train, for these people to run through the red lights, through the crossing arms, or to not follow the rules to the road," said Lt. Chris Weadick.

Today troopers were posted out along the railroad crossings to give tickets to those running the red lights. In the first hour alone, more than 10 drivers were pulled over for trying to beat the train.

After what I saw today I'm not sure everyone is aware of the law or the consequences. The law states that if the red lights are flashing you must come to a complete stop before you can pass through the railroad tracks."

"We are gong to address the most flagrant violators out here that are doing these type of violations that are causing our serious injury crashes," says Weadick.

Just this year there have been 15 car train collisions reported, leaving 5 people injured and 2 deaths including a child. Operation lifesaver has been running for 12 years and as a result, injuries and deaths have been lower.

"We are seeing great compliance and we are encouraged."

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