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Friday 25 Jun 2010

LEVEL CROSSING USERS IN BEVERLEY ASKED “WOULD IT KILL YOU TO WAIT?”

Region & Route:

Network Rail targeting Beverley level crossing this week to warn users of the dangers of ignoring warning signs at level crossings.

The crossing near Beverley station is among the ten worst for misuse in the Yorkshire and North East area and drivers are regularly reported trying to beat the lights or swerve around the barriers

With new developments planned for Beverley likely to increase use of the crossing, Network Rail and its partners used the opportunity of the International Level Crossing Awareness Day (ILCAD) to remind people of the dangers of misuse by handing out leaflets titled “Would it Kill You to Wait?”

Tragically, hundreds of people are killed globally every year, after taking chances by running red lights, swerving barriers or ignoring warning signs.  

Warrick Dent, area general manager for Network Rail said: “We have a good safety record in comparison to many other countries but even one death is one too many. Jumping the lights and ignoring warning signs is sadly a sight we see all too often. Level crossings are safe, but if misused, they all pose very real risks.

“The international action day gives us another opportunity to drive home the message that running the risk at a level crossing is just not worth it. By trying to save a few seconds, you could end up seriously hurt or losing your life.”

Glen Fookes, train driver with Northern Rail, said: "Level crossing systems are there to protect road users as well as railway passengers. I would urge all motorists to make sure they use crossings correctly; it simply isn't worth taking the risk. As a train driver you can't swerve to avoid anyone trying to beat the barrier, all we can do is put on the emergency brake and hope that everyone will be ok - but it isn't always the case."

Inspector Cameron Young from British Transport Police (BTP) added: "BTP and our partners at Network Rail and Northern Rail are committed to continuing to educate drivers to use level crossings safely. We spoke to over 200 motorists and passengers including school children from a local primary school, as well as learner drivers from the Normandy Barracks Army base close by. 

“Around 95% of the people who are caught and prosecuted for misusing level crossings live in the local area and have used the facility many times. It is often this familiarity that causes the problem.  We would urge all users to comply with safety rules and use level crossings correctly.”

“BTP will take positive action against all drivers who fail to stop at the crossing lights or misuse crossings in any other way, and many can expect a substantial fine, court costs and penalty points on their driving licences.”

Throughout the day the team monitored the crossing and spoke to pedestrians and drivers about misuse, offering advice and information on how to stay safe near the railway.

They also handed out leaflets that spell out the chilling truth of taking chances at level crossings, and pose the question: “Would it kill you to wait?”