As used in §§ 23-10-403, 23-10-405, 23-10-406, and 23-10-409 — 23-10-431, unless the context otherwise requires, “railroad company”, “railroad companies”, or “carrier” means all corporations, companies, or individuals which own or operate any railroad in this state, whether as owner, contractor, lessee, mortgagee, trustee, assignee, or receiver, and their officers and agents.