A nationwide effort is underway to help prevent accidents at railroad crossings. The campaign hits home for Sumter County's John Brabham, Jr. He lost his son this summer.
"He went through a crossing, in the middle of the day at 12:35 in the middle of the day, and never saw it coming," said Brabham, Jr.
In late July a train struck and killed Brabham's oldest son, 16-year-old John Brabham III.
"Obviously it was shock and disbelief," said Brabham, Jr. "And then the grieving. And then eight weeks later it kind of hits you that its permanent, he's not coming back."
Mr. Brabham says its time for people to really understand the importance of railroad safety. The number or accidents at crossings is alarming. According to Operation Lifesaver, last year in this country a person or vehicle was hit by a train every two hours.
State Public Safety Director Mark Keel, says it will take everyone working together to cut down on the number or accidents.
"I fully support this effort to try and impact the public's driving behaviors at railroad crossings," said Keel.
"Just because an arm is not down, or you don't hear a bell or you don't see a flashing light, do not take it for granted that you can fly through there," said Brabham, Jr.
Until people take notice, John Brabham, Jr., says he'll keep warning others to cross with care.
According to Lifesaver Operation, last year in South Carolina there were 62 vehicle versus train crashes.
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