Foxnews.com photoBaton Rouge, La. - State police across Southeast Louisiana have partnered with several railroad companies and Amtrak in an effort to educate the public on the importance of safety around railroad tracks.
Louisiana State Police - Troop B sent the following news release Wednesday about Operation "Off Track":
"Louisiana State Police Troops A, B and L and numerous law enforcement agencies across southeast Louisiana are partnering with Kansas City Southern Railways, Union Pacific, Canadian National and Amtrak in an effort to educate the public on the importance of safety around railroad tracks. Law enforcement officials will target high risk railroad crossings on June 28, 2012. Efforts are focused on motorists who ignore railroad warning signals as trains approach and other related traffic laws.
"Citizens should always remember to look and listen as they approach any type of railroad track. Also, never stop on railroad tracks because, unlike vehicles, trains cannot swerve. Please remind children that railroad tracks are extremely dangerous and they should not play anywhere around them.
"Last year, 96 highway-rail grade crossing collisions occurred in Louisiana, resulting in 9 deaths. Louisiana state law requires motorists to obey signals at railroad crossings that indicate an approaching train including flashing red lights and/or lowered gates. Failure to obey these signals may result in a $200.00 fine and 30 days in jail for a first offense with higher fines and increased jail time for additional violations. Offenders are also required to attend and successfully complete an Operation Lifesaver course. The fine for racing a train is $1,000. "
