Level Crossings

There are over 7,600 Level Crossings both on public and private land that cut across the UK railway network.

The type of crossing provided depends on a number of factors - whether the right of way is private or public, volume and nature of traffic and the geographical features of the location. All have one common feature... they are safe if used correctly.

Every year, over 2,000 pedestrians and motorists are reported to have misused a crossing. Tragically some people are injured or killed primarily because they have made an error, deliberately made a violation or have become complacent about using the crossing.

Click here to find out more about our approach to managing level crossing safety.

Don't Run the Risk Campaign

You may be in a hurry. You may use it every day. You may even think you know when the train’s coming. But if you take a chance at a level crossing, you’re putting your life, and your family’s, at risk.

At Network Rail, we work hard to maintain level crossings so they are safe and work correctly. We’re doing everything we can to prevent more deaths from happening on the tracks.

So right now, we’re running a national advertising campaign highlighting the importance of level crossing safety.

Who uses Level Crossings?

Crossings are used by both private and public users. Young and old. There are 2 main groups.

1. Motorists and cyclists going about their daily business. Drivers could include mums on school runs, learners, local authorities, businesses, HGV drivers, farmers and farm workers.
2. Pedestrians. These are either regular users such as local residents or visitors to the area.

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The potential consequences of misusing crossings are very serious

Misuse is preventable; it requires diligent behaviour from users. Typically misuse is higher:

• During daylight hours
• During rush hour.

Misuse by either motorists or pedestrians leads to catastrophic risk for both users and trains:

• With train speeds up to 125mph, trains cannot stop quickly and pedestrians or vehicles are unlikely to survive collision impact.
• Trains can drag pedestrians or trespassers who are close to the tracks under their wheels because of their slipstream.

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What we are doing to make Level Crossings safer

There is currently considerable research and practical action being taken to raise awareness and change user behaviour around level crossings to reduce misuse and fatalities.

We have also dedicated Operations Risk Control Co-ordinators working with local authorities and private users to increase understanding of how to use Level Crossings correctly and the potential consequences of not doing so. 

We also work hard to maintain crossings so they are safe and enhanced where justified by the application of additional controls.

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What to do if you have a problem with a Level Crossing or have more questions

If you have a problem caused by a Level Crossing or any other part of the railway or if you simply want more information, please contact the National Helpline on 08457 11 41 41.

If you see a pedestrian or motorist misusing a Level Crossing, please call the British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 or the Police on 999.

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