Media centre

Wednesday 6 Oct 2004

JUMP THE LIGHTS – PAY THE PENALTY

Region & Route:

| Southern

The British Transport Police in Surrey are on a mission to catch and prosecute motorists who misuse Farnham level crossing. PC Peak, British Transport Police said:  “We have been monitoring the crossing and are astounded by motorists’ negligence.  There are signs, warning lights and an audible alarm all designed to make the public aware of the crossing, but still motorists irresponsibly sit in the yellow hatch box.” Farnham level crossing is on the B3001.  It is a full barrier crossing, which is activated by an approaching train. If a motorist ignores all of the warnings, they are at risk from causing a potentially fatal accident.  Over the past two years there have been a number of incidents where cars have struck and damaged the crossing barriers.  Most recently on 23 June 2004 the crossing barriers were damaged causing delay to both motorists and train services whilst repairs were carried out. Fortunately there have not been any injuries. PC Peak continued:  “Although the crossing is monitored by a signaller at Farnham signal box, motorists still shouldn’t break the law.  We are going to monitor this crossing on a regular basis and we will make an example of anyone caught misusing the crossing. We urge the public to be patient, adhere the warnings and stay safe.” The maximum penalty for misusing the railway crossing is £1000, three penalty points on the driver’s licence and disqualification from driving.