Senator Kevin Thomas Bill Advances as Deterrent for Train Crashes

(Garden City, NY) – A bill (S4089) that activates cameras at railroad crossing intersections has advanced unanimously out of the Transportation Committee. 

Senator Kevin Thomas sponsored the legislation in the wake of the deadly collision near the Westbury LIRR station. Three people were killed last month trying to get around two approaching trains. 

 “This bill will save lives,” Senator Kevin Thomas said. “I look forward to it swiftly passing in the Assembly.”

 The legislation would lead to ticketing drivers, who choose to navigate around the gates moments before accelerating trains arrive. It would assist in the effort to decrease vehicular accidents at dangerous railroad grade crossings.

 “My hope is this bill will eliminate, once and for all, the need to save time by racing past a speeding train,” Senator Thomas added.

Data from the Federal Railroad Administration indicates, crashes at railroad grade crossings have decreased except within New York. From 2004-2014, there were more than 370 collisions causing 63 deaths and 137 injuries.