MADISON, WI (WTAQ) – Wisconsin’s railroad commissioner is going around the state this week to promote a new safety campaign about being cautious at train crossings.
Jeff Plale says people are taking “silly risks” all the time walking on tracks and taking shortcuts. That’s part of the reason for a new campaign called “Operation Lifesaver.”
When people see railroad tracks, Plale says they should presume that a train is not far off. He cites an increase in train traffic from shipments of crude oil and frac-sand.
As a result, Plale says safety is even more important than in the past.
Railroad investigator Tom Clauder said motorists are also getting more tickets for violations at crossings. He says drivers can lose 6 points on their licenses and be fined $350 for driving around crossing gates which are down — or going through flashing train signals.
The Federal Railroad Administration said trains collided with seven motor vehicles throughout Wisconsin during a 15-month period ending in March.
(Story courtesy of Wheeler News Service)
