British Transport Police and Network Rail urge Wirral level crossing safety

Nov 25 2009 by Lorna Hughes, Birkenhead News

POLICE are tackling the “stupidity” of motorists and pedestrians who put their lives at risk while crossing Wirral’s train lines.

British Transport Police (BTP) officers are working with Network Rail this month to educate people who use the borough’s level crossings and show how they can be used safely.

The campaign is part of a national operation aimed at tackling the misuse of crossings of all types.

Sixteen people were reported for offences at crossings in Hoylake and Leasowe during the first two weeks of November.

BTP Inspector Gary Jones said: “Most of the people we have taken action against have failed to conform to the crossing, which basically means they have ignored the lights, barriers and sirens and tried to dash across the tracks.

“The stupidity of this is simply staggering. Level crossings are put in place to keep motorists and pedestrians safe, by misusing them people are putting their livesŠ on the line.

“They are also risking the safety of others. If a train collides with a car that has tried to dodge the barriers there is a very real danger of derailment, which could lead to serious injuries to those on board.”

The BTP says research shows 95% of incidents at level crossings are caused by people ignoring lights, signs or sirens.

Gemma Duffy, Network Rail community safety manager, said: "The rules around level crossings are clear and simple.