Network Rail Push Bike Level Crossing Safety Message
Image Courtesy of Network Rail
Network Rail have launched a new campaign to make cyclists aware of safety precautions at level crossings. The campaign is being supported by Sustrans, the charity behind the creation and management of the 14,000 mile National Cycle Network.
Britain’s level crossings are among the safest in the world, but injuries and near misses still happen regularly. In the last five years, there have been around 140 incidents involving cyclists with four being fatal.
Level Crossing Safety
The campaign reminds cyclists:
- To dismount at footpath crossings, as they weren’t designed with cyclists in mind. Some have found that their bike wheels will get stuck when crossing the railway. By walking, you can stop, see the track and cross with lower risk.
- The amber light mean’ Stop – there is a train coming’. Please do not cross when this light is shown.
- Headphones are a distraction and will stop you hearing the train coming and the alarms.
- Never assume that there is only one train coming or think you know the timetable to guess when a train might come.
David John is a level crossing manager at Network Rail and a keen cyclist. He explains: As a keen cyclist myself, I know the hazards that riders encounter every day. Level crossings can sometimes seem to be a hindrance, but to keep safe were reminding cyclists to stop when the flashing amber lights come on as a train will soon coming through, and to dismount at footpath crossings. I know getting off the bike isnt always ideal but I do this to make sure I can safely stop, look and listen to check no train is coming, and to protect my bike as I wheel it across. Weve seen quite a few cyclists get their wheels stuck while crossing the tracks, so this will help keep your bike as well as you safe.
Network Rail Level Crossing Campaign
Huw Davies, Sustrans National Cycle Network Director, said: Getting on your bike is a quick way of going from A to B for everyday journeys, but is also a good way to stay healthy and explore the countryside through the National Cycle Network.
With there being thousands of level crossings on roads and cycle routes, its important that when the public are out and about this summer enjoying the Sustrans Network they are aware of how to use these crossings in a safe and sensible manner.
Level crossings can be confusing to people who arent used to using them, but by following a few simple rules people can learn how to cross them with safety and confidence.
