London, UK: Vehicle operators are reminded to ensure drivers are aware of the correct use of user-worked level crossings.
The warning comes after a Rail Accident Investigation Branch investigation into an accident at Home Farm crossing where a delivery van and a train collided at the user-worked level crossing, near Alsager, on 11 February 2023.
A preliminary examination found that the accident occurred because the van was driven onto the level crossing when a train was approaching. While the van driver was able to stop the van before the train reached the crossing, the front of the van remained close enough to the rails to be struck by the train. Neither the van driver nor anyone on the train was injured, although the collision caused serious damage to the van and some damage to the train.
The correct method of operation at Home Farm user worked level crossing is described on the signs at the crossing which require the drivers of all vehicles to contact the signaller and get permission to cross the railway. This is because vehicle drivers cannot see far enough along the railway line to be able to tell whether it is safe to cross. Records show there was no call made to the signaller to ask for permission to cross at Home Farm on this occasion.
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch is concerned that this incident is very similar to one which occurred at Frognal Farm level crossing in October 2017, also involving a delivery vehicle.
“We have sent copies of this letter to Network Rail, the Office of Rail and Road, the Department for Transport and the Health and Safety Executive, so that they are aware of the contents,” the Rail Accident Investigation Branch said.
