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Friday 24 Apr 2026

One in six people in Scotland admit browsing on phones at level crossings

Region & Route:

Scotland’s Railway: Scotland

Around one in six people in Scotland admit to browsing or texting on their phone while using a level crossing, according to a new survey.

Commissioned by Network Rail, the survey is part of a new ’No Second Chances’ campaign, highlighting the dangers of distraction near the railway.  

The campaign features a series of 20‑second films illustrating the potentially fatal consequences of not paying attention at level crossings.  

It’s aimed primarily at young adults, who the nationwide survey found admitted to chatting to others while crossing (28%), using their phone (24%) and not removing their headphones (26%). Seven out of ten 18-34 year-olds also believe they could get out of the way if a train approached, and 98% didn’t know it takes around a mile for a train travelling at 80mph to make an emergency stop.   

Level crossings remain one of the most safety critical parts of the railway, where a moment's distraction can have life changing consequences. The No Second Chances campaign reinforces a clear message: stop, look, listen and stay alert. 

Innis Keith, health safety and environment director at Network Rail Scotland, said: “We want everyone to get to where they need to be safely, and that means making the right choices at level crossings. People should never take risks, never try to beat the train, and always follow the instructions in place. 

“Even with protections in place, a moment of distraction or impatience can have serious consequences. By stopping, looking, listening and following the signs every time, everyone can help keep themselves and others safe.” 

Network Rail, British Transport Police (BTP) and train operators across Britain have joined forces to deliver ‘No Second Chances’, which is the industry’s first joint, national level crossing safety campaign. 

Chief Inspector Joseph Gorman of BTP, said: “It’s vital that pedestrians and drivers pay extra care and attention at level crossings, as the consequences for misusing them can easily be catastrophic. You might think you’re simply saving some time, but if you miss or deliberately ignore the warning signs then you could be placing yourself and others in incredibly serious danger, and that is never worth it.  

“We respond to incidents at level crossings every month, and through patrols, CCTV, and close work with Network Rail, we will always seek to prosecute those who misuse them. Please think wisely as you approach level crossings - be patient, and don’t take any risks.” 

There are 6,000 level crossings in operation across Britain, differing based on their location and levels of use. Safety features range from lowering full or half barriers to block access to the track, to audible sirens and flashing lights warning of an approaching train. 

Daniel Mann, director of industry operations at Rail Delivery Group, added: “Level crossings demand our full attention every single time. This campaign is a powerful reminder of why level crossing safety is so important and how a momentary lapse in judgment can have devastating consequences.  

“Safety is our top priority and as Great British Railways moves closer to becoming a reality, the rail industry is working together to reinforce a clear and consistent message to stop, look and listen when using level crossings, so that everyone makes it home safely.”  

The rail industry is urging the public to stay safe when using level crossings by following the advice:   

• Stop, look, and listen. Every crossing is different so always read the signs and follow the instructions. 

• Understand warning signs (lights, barriers, alarms) and obey them fully. Always follow instructions at each level crossing completely. 

• Check both ways before crossing. If there is a train coming, wait behind the barrier or marked line until it has passed. Remember there may be more than one train, and they may be coming from different directions. 

• Cross quickly and safely. Make sure your exit route is clear and do not stop when crossing.