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Tuesday 26 Mar 2013

Blythe Bridge problem crossing targeted by rail and police

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Motorists and pedestrians using the level crossing on Uttoxeter Road, Blythe Bridge will be reminded of the need to do so safely by police and rail teams tomorrow (27 March).

The level crossing is protected by lights, audible warning and full barriers which cover the full width of the road, yet cameras at the site record around 15 incidents of misuse every week.

Network Rail’s route managing director, Martin Frobisher, said: “The safety of people on and around our railway is absolutely paramount, yet every day we see someone risking their lives, and potentially those of others, at this crossing. Our cameras regularly record people jumping the lights, weaving around the barriers when they are descending and speeding through at highly dangerous speeds.

“We appreciate that the delay to your journey caused by waiting for the crossing can be frustrating, but it is essential people remember that it is there to protect them from trains which can weigh several hundred tons and take the length of up to 20 football pitches to stop.”

In addition to the teams on the crossing itself, a purpose-built marked police van which has been funded by Network Rail to help British Transport Police (BTP) to catch and prosecute those who misuse level crossings will be on display in the Tesco’s car park. The van has nine cameras, each of which uses number plate recognition technology to deter motorists from breaking the law. The van is operated by BTP officers and has access to all the systems required to process prosecutions instantly. The van is based in the East Midlands and is deployed to crossings around the region.

Teams from Network Rail and BTP will be on site between 0700 and 1300 on Wednesday 27 March 2013.

Inspector Tracy Metcalf from BTP added: “The aim of the event is to reduce the number of incidents at Blyth Bridge crossing by making the public more aware of the potential dangers, and showing them how to use the crossing safely. We are more interested in preventing accidents and saving lives than enforcement.

“BTP takes level crossing misuse across the country very seriously. In comparison with most other countries we have a good safety record, but misuse of crossing persists, despite our best efforts, and even one injury or death is one too many.

“Incredibly some people are still putting their lives on the line by ignoring warning lights and sirens and trying to dash through crossings when trains are approaching. This is hugely irresponsible and dangerous and we will not hesitate to take action against anyone caught doing so.

Inspector Metcalf added: “People who misuse level crossings are not only putting themselves in harm’s way – they are also risking potential injury to the staff and passengers on board the trains.

“If a train collides with a car that has tried to dodge the barriers, there is a very real danger of derailment which could lead to serious injuries to those on board.”