ARTC Warn Caution Needed

WHILE the investigation is continuing into an incident last night in which a ute was clipped by a grain train at the level rail crossing on Segenhoe Road south of Aberdeen, the Australian Rail Track Corporation has issued a safety reminder to residents for level rail crossings.

Bas Boyln, general manager corporate affairs from the Australian Rail Track Corporation said rail lines should be treated with caution.

“We urge all motorists and all members of the community to be careful around level crossings and use caution when approaching the rail line,” said Mr Bolyn.

“Trains have right of way at level crossings,” he said.

“Fully loaded freight trains can take up to two kilometres to stop, so if a motorist does not follow the road rules, there is little a train driver can do other than apply their emergency brakes.

“Incidents can have a severe impact on train drivers, as well as first responders which includes local rail crews. These impacts are traumatic particularly if there is someone seriously hurt in an incident,  but even in the instance of near hits which can have a traumatic and lasting effect on train drivers,” he said.

“Most railway level crossing crashes happen at sites that drivers use regularly, at active level crossings on dry, straight roads – so it’s important to take extra care at all crossings whatever the conditions,” Bas Bolyn said.

Some things to the ARTC would like people to remember:

• Trains are usually travelling faster than you think
• It is good to get in the habit to switch off the radio and wind down your window when approaching a level crossing to ensure you are paying full attention to all signs at the crossing.
• If the signals are not activated then there is no requirement to stop, however you should still apply safe driving skills and look for trains in both directions to ensure the tracks are clear.

Related story: Car Collides with Train.