Dangerous confidence around level crossing safety in West Midlands
Over 200 incidents and near misses have been recorded at level crossings across the region in the past year
New figures show people in the West Midlands are overconfident about the dangers of railway level crossings.
More than eight in ten people (82%) say they know the risks, but only 3% correctly understand how long it takes an 80mph train to stop.
Risky behaviours and distractions are the most common factors putting people at risk, such as: people not removing headphones, rushing across, and chatting while crossing.
The findings comes as there has been 217 level crossing incidents in the past year, including 13 near misses, in the West Midlands and surrounding areas.
The findings come from Network Rail and British Transport Police who have launched a new safety campaign called “No Second Chances” to highlight the dangers, particularly among 18 to 34-year-olds.
The campaign warns that many people wrongly believe they could move out of the way in time if a train approached, despite trains needing around a mile to stop in an emergency.
Network Rail is reminding the public to stop, look and listen, follow signals and never cross when warnings are active.
Anthony Bonell, level crossing manager for Network Rail Central route, said: “Across the West Midlands and beyond, level crossings are part of everyday journeys – to work, to school, and out with friends.
"It only takes one missed warning or one moment of distraction for things to go wrong, because trains can be on you far quicker than you think and they need a long distance to come to a stop.
“When you reach a crossing, slow down, give it your full attention, and make sure you’ve clearly checked it’s safe before you step or drive onto the crossing. Waiting a few extra seconds is always better than taking a risk.”