CN Police say that on Feb. 25 a motor vehicle was struck by a train at the Wilson Park crossing in Prince George and is now reminding the public to proceed with caution and alertness when operating over railway crossings.
“Not only is it dangerous to disregard signals/ signs at railroad crossings, but it is illegal! Section 185 of the Motor Vehicle Act – BC, states that all motorists must obey the signs and control devices at crossings. Please take the time to be aware of your surroundings and watch for railway crossings in your community,” states the CN police in a media release.
CN Police say they will be on patrol in the community to send a strong safety reminder to not trespass onto railway tracks or property and to be aware of your surroundings.
According to the Transportation Safety Board of Canada in 2022, 233 incidents occurred where disregard for railroad crossing signals and gates, and distracted driving were the main cause of accidents.
This resulted in 23 fatalities and 72 serious injuries.
CN says its important to remember that trains cannot stop quickly. Even if the locomotive engineer sees you, a train can take up to 2 km or more to stop which is the length of 18 football fields.
