A level crossing is where a road crosses a railway or a tramway line. In recent years there has been more awareness about how to deal safely with these crossings following various tragedies.

Level Crossing Tips:

If you have already crossed the white line when the amber light comes on keep going. Do not stop or hesitate. The amber light is a warning in the same way that an amber warning light on a traffic light is there to warn you.

You must never reverse onto a level crossing or across a level crossing.

If you have been waiting at a level crossing and the train or tram has passed, you should only cross when the lights have gone out and the barriers have fully open.

Never zigzag around half-barriers. They lower automatically when a train is coming. At a level crossing where there are no barriers, a train is approaching when the lights show.

Always exercise caution at level crossings and never enter a crossing if you can’t fully clear it. It could be disastrous should you be sitting in a line of traffic and a train approaches. Always look ahead, concentrate and don’t assume there will be enough space for your vehicle to safely clear the crossing if you are in heavy traffic.

If you breakdown on a level crossing you should get everyone out of the vehicle and clear the crossing immediately. If possible you should use the railway telephone to tell the operator and then carefully follow the instructions you are given.

If there is time you should try and move the vehicle from the crossing (only if there is time). If the alarm sounds and a train is on approach you should get fully clear of the vehicle.

Staying safe at level crossings is all about forward planning, concentration and being aware of the potential dangers they pose. Remember unlike a car, a train simply can’t stop very quickly. The impact of a train hitting a car is catastrophic and almost without question, fatal for any people unfortunate to be in a vehicle should the worst happen. Stay safe and respect level crossings.