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Monday 27 Apr 2026

Survey finds North West adults underestimate level crossing risks

Region & Route:

North West & Central

| North West & Central: North West

New figures show people in the North West have a dangerous overconfidence surrounding the risks when using railway level crossings.

Nearly eight in ten (79%) surveyed are confident they know the dangers – but only 4% actually understand how long it takes an approaching 80mph train to stop.

More than one in five (21%) don’t consider removing headphones when at a level crossing, while 14% admit to rushing and a quarter (25%) chat with others while crossing.

The findings come as Network Rail, British Transport Police (BTP) and the wider rail community come together to launch the first industry-wide level crossing campaign to raise awareness of the dangers around level crossings – called No Second Chances.

No Second Chances – primarily aimed at 18-34-year-olds through a series of three uncompromising 20-second films – raises awareness of the dangers of not using a level crossing properly and the consequences of being distracted.

Distraction is a common risk at level crossings, particularly among adults aged 18 to 34, who are more likely to admit to behaviours that reduce awareness of their surroundings.

Fifty-eight percent of Manchester residents feel confident they could move out of the way in time if a train appeared while they were crossing.

But 96% don't realise that it takes approximately one mile for a train travelling at 80mph to come to a complete emergency stop – and that’s not the fastest a train can travel on the network.

The No Second Chances campaign marks a new joined-up way of working for the rail sector on safety communications, ahead of the establishment of Great British Railways (GBR).

Simon Butterworth, Network Rail head of health, safety and environment for the North West, said: “Being distracted by what’s on your phone or listening to your favourite music takes your eyes and ears off the risk when crossing the railway. One mistake and the result can be fatal; there are no second chances at all. Crossing the railway is not like crossing a road. A train can be travelling 100mph or more. It cannot swerve to avoid you and it cannot stop.

"The whole rail industry is now joining together to raise awareness of the dangers of not paying attention when approaching a level crossing. It only takes a few seconds to stop, look and listen. Don’t be tempted to rush – those seconds really could save your life.”

Daniel Mann, Rail Delivery Group director of industry operations, said: “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.” 

Chief Inspector Joseph Gorman, British Transport Police, said: “Everyone, pedestrians and drivers alike, should pay extra care and attention to level crossings as the consequences for any misuse can 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 or 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 our Network Rail partners, we will always seek to prosecute serious offences to deter misuse. Please think wisely as you approach level crossings, be patient, and don’t take any risks.”

Rail Minister, Lord Peter Hendy, said: “Safety on our railway is paramount and I’d urge everyone to follow this campaign’s important message and always pay attention at level crossings.

“I’m pleased to see the industry join forces for this campaign, particularly as we work to bring track and train together under Great British Railways, which will put passengers at the heart of Britain’s railway again to deliver the services they deserve.”

There are around 6,000 level crossings in operation across the country, and each is different depending on its surroundings and usage. These include crossings which range from footpaths requiring users to stop, look and listen for approaching trains before deciding if it safe to cross, through to those with full barriers, audible alarms, and road traffic light signals on public roads.

Network Rail is urging the public to stay safe when using level crossings by following the advice:  

• Always read the signs and follow instructions, and obey lights, alarms, and barriers.
• Stop, look and listen every time you cross and avoid distraction.
• Check both directions before crossing. If there is a train coming, do not cross and wait until all tracks are clear. Remember there may be more than one train – another train could be hidden from view by a passing train.
• Never stop on a level crossing. Cross quickly and safely.
• Only cross when all tracks are clear, and where provided, lights and audible warnings are not active.

For more information on the ‘No Second Chances’ campaign, visit: https://www.networkrail.co.uk/communities/safety-in-the-community/safety-campaigns/no-second-chances/