Barrington police to crack down on rail crossing violations

Barrington police will step up their presence near the village's railroad crossings starting Sunday as part of Illinois Rail Safety Week.

According to the village, police plan to have enforcement details near crossings and the Metra station to cite both drivers and pedestrians who disobey the laws associated with railroad grade crossings and railroad property. Police officers also will distribute literature that contains information on how to be safe around trains and train tracks.

The state declared Sept. 14-20 Illinois Rail Safety Week in order to promote vehicle and pedestrian safety around railroad tracks and trains. In 2013, there were 126 crossing collisions involving motor vehicles, which resulted in 40 injuries and 21 fatalities in the state. In addition, there were 52 trespasser incidents that resulted in 27 injuries and 25 fatalities involving pedestrians.