Officers to focus on train crossings

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Southeast Idaho law enforcement officers will conduct "Officer On A Train" and "Adopt A Crossing" enforcement operations beginning Aug. 7.

An Idaho State Police news release said the purpose of this enforcement operation is to increase public awareness of the potential dangers that exist at highway railroad intersections and eliminate driver actions that can have tragic consequences.

The "Officer On A Train" enforcement effort will have an officer placed in the lead locomotive of a train as a spotter. The officer will observe traffic approaching the highway rail intersections as the train proceeds down the tracks. Other officers will pace the train or be parked at specific locations. When a motorist is observed violating the laws pertaining to the approaching intersection, the officer on the train will radio one of the chase cars, which will stop the motorist, explain the dangers and issue a citation. The "Officer On A Train" run will be between Idaho Falls and Sugar City.

The "Adopt A Crossing" enforcement will entail city, county and state law enforcement officers from throughout Southeast Idaho picking a crossing within their jurisdiction and enforcing the laws that pertain to the crossing.

During 2007, there were 20 car train collisions resulting in seven people injured and two fatalities. Five pedestrians where also hit by trains while trespassing on railroad property.

This year to date, there have been 15 car train collisions reported, resulting in five people injured and two fatalities. Twelve of the collisions occurred at passive crossing with stop signs and crossbucks and six incidents were the result of vehicles running into the side of the train.

For additional information, to schedule a free presentation, call Idaho Operation Lifesaver, 208-236-5626.

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