Level Crossings

A level crossing is a place where a road crosses a railway line.

Note the warning signs as you approach. They will tell you whether the crossing has a barrier, or not.

Most crossings have full or half barriers. Crossings without barriers are called “open crossings”.

Either type may be controlled by a steady amber light followed by twin flashing red lights which warn of an approaching train. An audible alarm to warn pedestrians will also sound once the lights show. You must stop when the lights show.

If the lighs continue to flash after a train has passed then there is another train coming. Keep waiting. Consider switching off the engine if you are waiting a while.

If the audible warning sounds after you have entered the crossing then you must continue to the other side.

DO NOT...

• Stop on the crossing!
• Drive onto the crossing unless there is a space for you on the other side (like a box junction)
• Drive bumper to bumper with the car in front! There may be an obstruction ahead and you could be left trapped on the railway lines
• Park near the crossing! (you could cause an obstruction which in turn could cause a traffic jam)

Open crossing without lights

At some crossings without lights a telephone will be provided. You will need to talk to the signal operator on the telephone and they will tell you how long you have before the next train passes through.

You may need to open two gates, return to the car, drive across, and close both gates before the next train comes. Let the signal operator know how long you think this will take.

Occasionally there may be no phone at all, and just a “Give Way” sign. Be extremely careful, and make sure that there is no train coming before you attempt to drive across.

Breakdowns

In the event of a breakdown or accident on the crossing then get everyone out of the vehicle and clear of the crossing. Use the telephone and follow the instrucions given to you by the signal operator. If you have time to remove the vehicle then do so.