2011 01 British Transport Police Issue Warning After Single Level Crossing Is Misused 26 Times | Road Traffic Accidents
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British Transport Police issue warning after single level crossing is misused 26 times
A SINGLE level crossing in Altrincham was misused 26 times last year.
And British Transport Police (BTP) is warning about the dangers of violating the crossings at Navigation Road.
Sergeant Kevan Smith said: “It is hard to believe that so many people are prepared to put their life, and those of others, at risk simply to save a few seconds at the level crossing.
“Of the 26 offences we recorded, 25 were for failing to conform to the traffic lights. This impatience is reckless and dangerous and we are working closely with Network Rail, Greater Manchester Police and Trafford Council to address the problem.
“This is a busy area with trains and trams utilising the crossing and pedestrians and drivers need to be aware of the potential danger.”
During the coming weeks BTP and partner agencies will be monitoring the level crossing and will not hesitate to take action against anyone who fails to use the crossing in the correct way.
There are more than 7,600 level crossings across the UK railway network and research has shown that 95 per cent of incidents are caused by misuse with people ignoring the lights, signs or sirens.
Gary Openshaw, Network Rail’s area general manager, said: “Rail travel is the safest form of transport in the country, but the biggest risk of a catastrophic incident comes from people misusing level crossings.
“In 2008 there were 20 collisions between road vehicles and trains caused by people trying to beat the lights, and sadly, 15 people lost their lives on level crossings. Don’t run the risk – it really is not worth it.”
Sgt Smith added: “We want everyone who uses the Navigation Road crossings to be fully aware of the potential dangers and to treat the railway with the respect it rightly demands.
“Level crossings are perfectly safe if used correctly and we ask that all motorists and pedestrians exercise a little patience when on Navigation Road.”