Media centre

Monday 23 May 2005

RED LIGHT RUNNERS PUT LIVES AT RISK

Region & Route:

Scotland’s Railway: Scotland

Network Rail and the British Transport Police have this week launched a campaign to promote safer driving on Dingwall’s level crossings. The town’s three level crossings rank among Scotland’s eight most misused, with motorists driving through the red lights and even dodging the barriers. Network Rail staff and British Transport Police will be patrolling the crossing today and tomorrow to warn drivers of the dangers, while a car that collided with a train on a level crossing will be displayed in Tesco’s car park. Ron McAulay, Route Director for Scotland, said: “Level Crossings are safe when used properly – but too many drivers are dicing with death and ignoring the warning signs and red lights. “Most drivers are responsible and the number of people prosecuted for driving through red lights at Scotland’s most misused crossings has decreased.  But every time someone runs the lights, they run the risk of causing a fatal accident.” The worst offenders are local males aged between 35 and 55. Most offenders are people who use the level crossings regularly.