2 crashes at rail crossing spur call for changes

Two cars have collided with trains at the intersection of Congers Lake Road West and South Rockland Avenue in the past week, according to officials. The apparent issue is that drivers unfamiliar with

News 12 Staff

•

Nov 24, 2015, 4:51 AM

•

Updated 3,263 days ago

Two cars have collided with trains at the intersection of Congers Lake Road West and South Rockland Avenue in the past week, according to officials.

The apparent issue is that drivers unfamiliar with the intersection are likely to turn down the tracks instead of onto the road after dark, according to Clarkstown police.

Rockland County Executive Ed Day says the intersection needs better lighting and crossing gates.

Officer Peter Walker urges drivers to travel more slowly at night.

"Something that may be visible during the day is hidden at night," Walker says.

Walker will meet with representatives from a freight train company and the state Department of Transportation later this week to discuss safety improvements at the intersection.

The drivers of both cars escaped injury, and both CSX freight trains were carrying crude oil, but no spills or leaks have been reported.