Drivers warned after repeated level crossing misuse in Derbyshire

Motorists in Derbyshire are being urged to take greater care at level crossings after multiple reports of drivers queueing on the railway line at Willington. Network Rail says cars have been seen idling directly on the tracks in recent weeks, prompting concerns for safety at the site south-west of Derby.

Temporary electronic warning signs have already been put in place to deter motorists from stopping on the crossing, but staff say some drivers continue to ignore them. On several occasions, vehicles have stopped on the tracks long enough for emergency intervention to be required. The crossing has already been the scene of two incidents in a short space of time – a collision involving a car and a train on 28 November, now under investigation by British Transport Police, and a separate case on 1 December when a barrier struck a vehicle, causing disruption to rail services.

Dan Matthews, Network Rail operations director, said:

“Level crossings are there to keep everyone safe, but they can be extremely dangerous if used incorrectly. The trend we’ve seen recently at Willington with drivers ignoring mandatary signage is very worrying and could have tragic consequences. It’s imperative that motorists remain alert, comply with the signage and make sure the exit is clear before moving onto a crossing. It’s important to be patient and it’s never worth the risk just to move a few metres further forward.”

Inspector Robert Drysdale of British Transport Police added:

“I urge drivers to take extra caution and care at the Willington level crossing. You might think you’re saving time, but you could be putting yourself, and others, in serious danger. Level crossings can be incredibly dangerous and if warning signs are ignored or missed, the consequences could potentially be catastrophic. We deal with numerous incidents each month at level crossings, and through patrols, CCTV enquiries and close collaboration with our Network Rail partners, we will always seek to prosecute serious offences to deter misuse.”

Image: Network Rail