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Thursday 20 Jan 2011

MOTORISTS GIVEN ANOTHER WARNING

Region & Route:

Motorists using Langley Green level crossing are being given another reminder not to misuse it, and to have patience and regard for their own safety. People from Network Rail and British Transport Police will be on hand to talk to motorists on Friday (21 Jan) about the safe use of the crossing – and anyone caught breaking the law or behaving irresponsibly will be dealt with as appropriate by the police.

Pedestrians are being targeted as well because CCTV footage has shown people vaulting over the barriers when in the lowered position, forcing them apart so others can get through or dashing across at the last minute to duck under the barriers as they come down.

Network Rail has re-issued a number of video clips showing what people will do just to shave a few minutes off their journey times. The clips include a car driver weaving round the barriers as they come down – resulting in one scraping across the top of the car – and a woman with a baby buggy who nearly gets trapped between the lowered barriers.

Gemma Duffy, Network Rail community safety manager, said: “I am amazed at the lengths some people will go to. We have footage of somebody jumping over the barrier and dashing across in front of a train with seconds to spare – and there was snow under foot. I shudder to think what would have happened if they had slipped.”

Chief Inspector Paul Richards, BTP Wales and Western Area level crossing lead, said: “British Transport Police is committed to working closely with Network Rail and colleagues across the rail industry to help make level crossings as safe as possible.

“As well as enforcement, education is an important part of trying to eradicate the problem of dealing with the misuse of crossings. Where necessary, we will continue to take robust action against motorists and pedestrians who misuse crossings and therefore put their own lives, as well as those of other people, at risk.

“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.

“Level crossings – and other crossings where road, footpaths and rail cross – are designed to keep people safe. And, when used correctly, that is exactly what they do.”

BTP officers and Network Rail’s community safety manager, plus other operational staff will be at the crossing during the morning and evening peak periods on Friday 21 January.

Anyone who witnesses motorists or pedestrians misusing any level crossing should contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40.