Motorists are being encouraged to be cautious and aware of their surroundings after two vehicles crashed into the same train Tuesday afternoon in the R.M. of Stanley.

The first incident happened around 2 p.m. east of Winkler when a vehicle travelling on Road 18 West collided with the westbound locomotive, rolling several times.

RCMP say the 53-year-old male driver from Morden, who was not wearing a seatbelt at the time, was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and released later that day.

Then, two hours later Pembina Valley RCMP responded to a second incident west of Winkler on Road 23 West when a vehicle heading north collided with the same westbound train.

Police say the 19-year-old female driver from Morden had stopped at the stop sign but proceeded through the crossing when it was unsafe to do so, and the vehicle was pushed into the ditch. The driver was treated and released at the scene.

“Many railroad tracks in Manitoba go through rural areas and crossroads at uncontrolled intersections,” said Corporal Julie Courchaine of the Manitoba RCMP. “Drivers must be cautious and aware of their surroundings. When a train is coming, vehicles should stop at least four and a half metres away from the rails and wait until the train is completely clear before proceeding. Please be vigilant and drive safe.”

RCMP along with Canadian Pacific Railway Police are investigating. As well, the Transportation Safety Board has been notified.