Regulator reminds that level crossing misuse can lead to prosecution

3 April 2009
ORR/11/09

Observe level crossing rules, or face the consequences is the stark warning today from the Office of Rail Regulation (ORR).

The health and safety regulator for the railways warns that level crossing misuse is not only dangerous to individuals and in extreme cases, people on trains, but can land offenders in court.

ORR was involved in a recent British Transport Police (BTP) investigation following an incident at Wraysholme level crossing, Cumbria in December 2008.

A van, which was towing another vehicle, approached the crossing but the driver ignored the warning lights and narrowly missed an oncoming train. He was fined £650, banned from driving for 30 days and ordered to pay £60 costs at South Lakeland Magistrates Court in Kendal on 23 March 2009.

Allan Spence, deputy chief inspector of railways at the ORR said: “The fine and driving ban handed out in this particular case clearly demonstrate that, like us, the courts take level crossing misuse seriously.

“But this driver was lucky – in so many other cases, failing to follow level crossing instructions leads to tragedy. And incidents involving misuse are on the increase. Drivers and pedestrians should be clear that running the risk at level crossings can mean they end up in court, or something much more serious.”

In support of an international level crossing awareness day on 25 June 2009 to highlight the dangers of level crossings, ORR inspectors will be working to improve user behaviour. The event, organised by the International Union of Railways (UIC), is the first of its kind and aims to reduce the number of accidents on level crossings.

Press enquiries

ORR Press Office – 020 7282 2007/2188