When, in the judgment of the department, any railroad corporation fails in any respect to comply with the laws of the state; or if any railroad corporation fails to operate its railroad and business in a reasonable and expedient manner which is safe and convenient to the public, the department may order such changes as it finds to be proper and shall serve an order upon such corporation. Nothing in this section or section 327C.4 shall be construed as to nullify responsibility or liability for damage to person or property by any railroad corporation.