Union Pacific Railroad and the Arlington Police Department worked together Tuesday morning in an effort to educate drivers and enforce railroad crossing laws as part of the UP Cares Program.

The UP Cares Program works to reduce the number of train collisions through law enforcement partnerships.

Police officers on Tuesday watched for crossing violations as UP trains traveled through Arlington. During a two-hour period, officers issued 20 citations and reminded drivers to obey crossing warnings. Violation fines are $214.

In Texas, motor vehicle laws require drivers to stop at least 15 feet from crossings where warning signals indicate a train is approaching.

"Freight trains travel fast," said Tiara Richard, spokesperson for the Arlington Police Department. "When railroad signals, flashers, and gates are activated, it's for a reason. Trains that travel 55 miles an hour take more than a mile to stop. It's important that drivers obey these laws for their safety and others."

For more information on safety, go to the UP Cares Program

.