Network Rail has released CCTV footage that brings attention to the danger of pedestrian distractions on level crossings.

The footage, which can be seen below, shows numerous examples, including people failing to observe safety barriers and using mobile phones.

This video follows research carried out that showed a reported 1,574 near-miss incidents on level crossings over the last four years.

Network Rail research showed that 47% of people admit to making a mistake, such as missing a train while being distracted by their phone, with young people being more at risk.

Younger generations, compared to other generations, are more likely to have walked in the wrong direction (39% vs 5%), drop something (39% vs 8%), or walk into someone or something (47% vs 7%), all while being distracted by their phones.

41% of people admitted that they are more cautious around road crossings than level crossings. With 6,000 level crossings in operation, caution should be used and users should follow the stop, look and listen approach. Additionally, understand warning signs and follow them and cross quickly and safely.

This information comes after numerous level crossings were misused over the last year, where warnings had to be issued, or just earlier this year, when a level crossing near Goring-by-Sea was temporarily closed due to safety concerns.

Incidents are often fatal or life-changing, like Lucy Ruck, who lost her leg on a level crossing when she was 17. She is now campaigning around safety at level crossings and raising awareness.

“The consequences of a split-second decision can be life-altering. I know this all too well from my own accident. I wasn’t being deliberately reckless or rushing, but perhaps because I used the station every day and knew it so well, I’d become a bit complacent. I went with everyone else without stopping to think for myself. Remember, no appointment or destination is worth risking your life for. Always look carefully and never assume it’s safe to cross. It’s better to be late in this world, than early in the next.”

Lucy Ruck