Railroad fatalities are a major concern in Illinois. The state hopes a new safety campaign will help to prevent more deaths from occurring. Last year, Illinois ranked third in the nation in both vehicle collision and trespasser fatalities along railroad tracks. Law enforcement, the rail industry and other transportation officials are responding by launching the state's first-ever rail safety week, which begins Sunday.
Throughout the week, educational events will be held at rail crossings and commuter stations across the state.
There will also be stepped up enforcement. Police will crack down on drivers and pedestrians who disobey crossing and trespassing laws. Authorities say the plan to hand out warnings, but will also issue citations if the violation is deemed severe enough.
To date, nearly 250 agencies have agreed to take part in the inaugural event.