Network Rail are reminding people to take care when using level crossings after footage was released showing a jogger being seconds from being hit by a train.
The incident occurred on the Ridgeway Path level crossing in Princes Risborough last November.
The train was travelling on the Chiltern main line between London and Oxford when the jogger ran across the tracks around 5 seconds before the train, causing the driver to apply the emergency brakes.
In partnership with the Ridgeway National Trail, the new video has been released to remind level crossing users of the dangers of the railway, particularly in unfamiliar areas.
The jogger did not remove their earphones at the crossing and should have stopped to look and listen for trains before proceeding to cross the line.
This level crossing is on the Ridgeway National Trail, known as “Britain’s oldest road”, the trail follows a route used since prehistoric times.
Rhys Evans, level crossing manager at Network Rail, said: “We want this new video to illustrate how to use level crossings properly, and the risks you take if you don’t. No matter how well you think you know a crossing, all users must stop, look and listen every single time they cross the railway.
“It would be easy to believe that level crossings in more rural areas would be less dangerous, but all crossings must be approached with the same caution, especially as we look to enjoy our countryside trails and crossings more often as summer approaches.”
Ian Hyde, engineering and safety director at Chiltern Railways, said: “Trains run frequently on the Chiltern network and the safe use of level crossings is critical to protect pedestrians who need to cross the railway as well as customers onboard our trains. Near-misses leave drivers feeling very shaken and we would urge people to please respect the railway and when crossing, follow the instructions and remain vigilant at all times. This near miss, but for a few seconds, could have had far worse consequences.”
Hazel Thomas, principal advisor for National Trails at Natural England, said: “The National Trails offer some of the easiest means of accessing the countryside and enjoying the outdoors. As they are long distance trails, they do on occasion need to cross operational railway lines.”
“We welcome all efforts to ensure users of the trails have a safe and enjoyable experience.”
Joanne Taylor, rights of way team leader at Buckinghamshire Council, said: “Buckinghamshire has a fantastic network of over 2000 miles of public rights of way across some of the most beautiful parts of the county.”
“While we encourage people to make full use of our paths for exercise and recreation, please be extra alert where they cross railway lines, roads or other obstacles.”
“Thankfully no one was injured in this particular case, however just taking that bit of extra care will mean everyone can enjoy walking and exploring safely.”
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Responses
Being flooded with such incidents in the media one could wonder whether it’s not part of a national campain to close footpath level crossings thereby denying the public their lawful right of access. Network Rail has got to accept that footpaths used by the public were there long before the advent of railways. Authorising acts of parliament contain clauses for their being maintained and to ensure the railway companies provided such protection for the user as was and is required. If there are safety concerns then Government guidelines should be followed which includes povision of extra safety measures such as miniature red/green lights or a footbridge. Not seek to close to, it could be alledged, avoid such costs and costs incurred through any train delays.
I think Buckinghamshire County Council’s comment was entirely sensible. Roads are of far more danger to the public where they can be crossed anywhere and speed limits are often exceeded.
Darwin Award was just seconds away. And yes tragedy would of been worse. That jogger will be experiencing nightmares for the rest of his life.