Media centre

Friday 10 Feb 2017

Level crossing safety reminder after Lancashire drivers and pedestrians seen ignoring warning signs

Region & Route:

| North West & Central

Network Rail is reminding motorists and pedestrians in Lancashire to use level crossings correctly after incidents of misuse were witnessed at a crossing near Ormskirk.

While repairs were being made to a temporary fault at the crossing at Four Lane Ends last month, the level crossing at Hoscar was kept in the down position for longer than usual to help keep the railway and road network safe. However, a train driver witnessed it being misused by drivers and pedestrians and raised the alarm with Network Rail’s signallers.

The actions of the individuals resulted in the barriers being down for longer as the train had to stop at Hoscar station to report the incident before it was allowed to proceed from Hoscar at caution.

Lucy Chadderton, Network Rail’s level crossing manager responsible for the Hoscar level crossing, said: “Faults at level crossings can be inconvenient and frustrating for drivers and pedestrians but there is no excuse for ignoring the warning signs and barriers. They are in place for the safety of drivers, pedestrians and rail users and ignoring them puts people at unnecessary risk.

“When there is a fault a level crossing I would urge people to report it to us immediately. I appreciate any failure can be inconvenient but everyone can be assured our engineers will fix the issue as soon as possible.”

To find out more about level crossings and how to use them, visit www.networkrail.co.uk/level-crossings

To report a fault with a level crossing call our 24 hour national helpline on 03457 114 141.