Officers Ride On A Train To Enforce Railroad Crossing Law - Spokane, North Idaho News & Weather KHQ.com

RATHDRUM, Idaho—Trains are commonly seen cruising the tracks of Rathdrum Prairie, but Tuesday they had a police officer on board making sure drivers were properly stopping.  

"If you eliminate one collision it's well worth it," said Chris Arvas, Idaho Operation Lifesaver.  

"Officer on a Train" is one of three programs put on by Idaho Operation Lifesaver to reduce vehicle versus train collisions.

Since 1990, they have reduced collisions from 90 to an average of 15 each year in the state of Idaho. They say most collisions happen because people just aren't paying attention.  

"They stop looking and they become complacent and that's when the train will get you," said Arvas.  

The railroad crossing law says if the lights are flashing drivers have to come to a complete stop, and can't proceed until it's safe.  

"And if there's a train approaching it's not safe to proceed. If you stall you aren't going to have enough time to get out of the way," said Arvas.  

The officers weren't out today hoping to get you. Instead they would prefer everyone just follow the laws, so they don't have to respond again for a more tragic incident.