MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The Wisconsin State Patrol is intensifying efforts on rail crossing safety as its September "Law of the Month."

The initiative aims to remind drivers and pedestrians to stay alert at over 4,000 public rail crossings throughout the state.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation cited statistics in a Wednesday, Sept. 6 press release stating that roughly a dozen people sustain injuries in train-related accidents each year in the state, primarily due to ignoring rail crossing signals and trespassing on rail property.

Efforts include participation in Operation Clear Track, a North America-wide enforcement and educational campaign set to run during Rail Safety Week, Sept. 18 - 24.

Drivers and pedestrians are urged to follow state law, which prohibits crossing when gates are lowered and mandates paying attention to warning lights and signs.

Law enforcement agencies are partnering with Operation Lifesaver to amplify awareness and reduce rail-related injuries. While trains do not have fixed schedules, the law and educational campaigns emphasize that road users should always expect a train at rail intersections.

Other recommended safety guidelines when driving on roads with rail crossings include:

• Do not go around lowered crossing gates or ignore warning lights;
• Make sure to cross the tracks only when there is sufficient room on the other side;
• Always stay behind the painted lines when waiting for a train to pass;
• Put away distractions like mobile phones when approaching rail crossings.

More information about rail crossing safety can be found by clicking here.