Transport for NSW has launched a new road safety campaign reminding road users about the risks at level crossings.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Paul Toole said the message was a simple one, that there was no excuse for putting lives on the line by trying to race a train.
“Despite the serious dangers, the prospect of a $464 fine and the loss of three demerit points we are still seeing too many near misses at level crossings,” Mr Toole said.
“We have flashing lights, boom gates and road markings at level crossings for good reason, and drivers, riders and pedestrians need to pay attention, take extreme care and watch out for trains,” he said.
Mr Toole said the majority of level crossing close calls occurred in regional areas, and the difference between a near miss and a fatal collision was sometimes just a matter of seconds.
Minister for Transport and Roads, Andrew Constance said the emotional pleas from NSW TrainLink drivers in the new campaign reminded road users of the pain that near misses and collisions caused train drivers and frontline crew.
“Trains can weigh up to 500 tonnes, travel up to 160 kilometres per hour and are unable to swerve or turn – which means by the time they see you, it’s often too late,” Mr Constance said.
“Ask yourself this; are the minutes you might save rushing across the tracks worth risking the years you could lose?” he said.
Mr Constance said that between 2005 and 2020 there were 32 crashes involving a train and vehicle at level crossings in NSW, resulting in nine fatalities and 11 serious injuries.
