Lowndes County officials posted on the county Facebook page urging drivers to follow railroad crossing laws and safety guidance. The post outlines when motorists must stop — including when lights are flashing, gates are down, a flagman signals or a train is visible — and says drivers must stop 15–50 feet from the tracks.
The county warned that it is illegal to drive around or under crossing gates and advised extra caution at passive crossings where lights and gates are not present: slow down, look and yield, and stop if necessary. The post also reminded drivers that buses and hazmat vehicles must stop at all crossings.
Officials stressed never to stop on the tracks and to always leave enough space to clear a crossing completely. The post urged motorists who stall on the tracks to exit their vehicle immediately.
The county noted that violations can result in fines, jail time or both and warned that noncompliance can cost lives. This safety advisory provides general reminders about railroad crossing risks and will be updated as needed.
Jon Ross Myers founded Mississippi News Group in 2013. Before founding the organization, he worked at The Daily Mississippian, The Marion Salute and The Southern Sentinel. A Mississippi journalist and writer based in Ripley, he received second place in poetry in the 2025 William Faulkner Literary Competition for "The Garden."
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