newy.com.au – Police will patrol five level crossings in Muswellbrook Shire and the Mid-Western council area where 22 near misses and one collision involving trains and motorists have been recorded since July 2016.
The joint NSW Police and Transport for NSW operation runs from September 14 to 25, targeting driver behaviour at four crossings in Muswellbrook Shire and one in the Mid-Western area. Motorists who breach level-crossing rules could face fines of up to $577 and three demerit points.
The local incidents form part of a statewide toll of 70 collisions and more than 1,200 near misses involving trains, vehicles and pedestrians at level crossings over the same period, according to figures issued with the campaign. Ten people died and seven were seriously injured in those incidents across NSW.
Transport authorities warn that trains can travel at up to 160km/h and may take up to 1.4 kilometres to stop completely. Police and Transport for NSW are urging motorists to slow down, look and listen as they approach crossings, and obey warning signs, signals and boom gates.
Chief Inspector Thomas Barnes, from the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command’s Newcastle Hunter sector, warned that unsafe decisions could have consequences well beyond the vehicle involved.
“If your journey includes a level crossing, allow extra time and be patient. A split-second decision can have life-changing consequences, not only for you but also for train drivers, passengers and your loved ones,” he said.
Police and Hunter Minister Yasmin Catley urged drivers not to let familiarity with a route distract them from the risks at a crossing.
“Whether you’re travelling a familiar route or heading somewhere new, drivers need to stay alert around level crossings. Don’t let routine become complacency.”
