A dozen schoolchildren crossed the railway line at Broughty Ferry as the barrier was coming down and a train due.
The terrifying incident happened in June and four of them all boys between the age of 12 and 14 have been reported to the procurator fiscal.
Those four are among a total of 46 people reported to the fiscal since mid-February, said British Transport Police Inspector Angela McGregor.
BTP and Network Rail are now warning motorists and pedestrians at Broughty Ferry that misusing level crossings is just not worth it.
For the first time, BTP officers are joining forces with colleagues from Tayside Police and Tayside Fire and Rescue in an operation today to reinforce that message to drivers who continue to ignore warning lights and lowering barriers.
Inspector McGregor, who is in charge of the operation, said: “This continuing misuse remains a real concern for all the agencies involved and today’s day of action is a joint response to the disturbing behaviour of drivers and pedestrians.”
Motorists will be stopped and advised on the correct procedure to adopt when approaching the crossing and they will also be told that any offence reported will result in prosecution. Pedestrians will also be warned that their actions at level crossings can be equally as dangerous.
The message is clear, according to Inspector McGregor.
“Despite previous warnings there are still those who think it is a good idea to put their own life, and those of others, at risk for the sake of saving a few minutes.”
Mark Henderson, Network Rail Scotland’s community safety manager, said: “Misuse of level crossings is the single biggest outside risk to rail safety. We are determined to work with the police and other partners to reduce abuse at our crossings and to prosecute those who insist on risking their lives and the safety of others by jumping the lights.”
Dundee City Council leader Ken Guild said: “It should be very clear to motorists and pedestrians who use Gray Street that the level crossing gates are there for their protection and the safety of rail passengers.
“I cannot imagine any reason that would be important enough for people to risk their lives and those of others by ducking under or dodging through the crossing gates as they close.”