Commuters keen to rush home from the office are being warned to take extra care at level crossings. New statistics show that nearly two thirds of near misses with trains among those travelling to and from work occur during the evening peak.

 

Figures from Network Rail reveal that in the last five years there have been more than 500 near misses involving pedestrians, cyclists and motorists in peak commuting hours (7-9am and 4-7pm). Six out of every ten of these incidents take place during the evening.

 

“Commuters want their journey to or from work to be as quick and easy as possible, and I understand they may find waiting at a level crossing an inconvenience especially after a hard day’s work,” said Network Rail head of level crossing safety Darren Cottrell.

 

But he added: “It is important everyone understands that level crossing warnings are there to keep us all safe, so be vigilant and obey them – even if you’re in a hurry”.

 

Network Rail this week launched a new campaign which aims to encourage safer behaviour at level crossings. The campaign reminds commuters that amber warning lights indicate a train is coming and asks them not to attempt to ‘beat the barriers’.

 

Mr Cottrell added: “By paying attention to the warnings at level crossings and avoiding distractions we can all keep ourselves out of harm’s way.”

 

Network Rail is investing more than £100M in a level crossing risk reduction programme which has seen more than 990 level crossings closed and dozens more upgraded since 2010. Network Rail currently operates 6500 level crossings according to regulator the Office of Rail & Road.

 

(Photo: Network Rail)