New research released today has revealed a worrying level of overconfidence among young adults using railway level crossings across Britain – a trend the rail industry warns is putting lives at serious risk.
The findings show that while eight in ten 18–34‑year‑olds say they understand the dangers of level crossings, the same proportion fail to recognise key warning signs of an approaching train. More concerning still, seven in ten believe they could move out of the way in time if a train appeared, despite trains travelling at speeds up to five times faster than cars.
Almost all young adults surveyed – 98% – were also unaware that a train travelling at 80mph can take around a mile to stop in an emergency, underlining a significant gap between perceived and actual risk.
Launch of ‘No Second Chances’ campaign
The research has prompted train operators, Network Rail and British Transport Police (BTP) to unite behind No Second Chances, the first ever industry‑wide level crossing safety campaign.
The campaign follows a series of recent tragic incidents at level crossings and comes at a pivotal moment for the sector, as the rail industry moves towards a more integrated future under Great British Railways.
At the heart of the campaign is a series of stark, uncompromising 20‑second films designed to confront the potentially fatal consequences of distraction at level crossings. The films are aimed primarily at young adults, who were found to be significantly more likely to admit to risky behaviour while crossing.
A survey commissioned by Network Rail revealed that young adults are more likely to:
- Chat to others while crossing (28%)
- Use their mobile phone (24%)
- Fail to remove headphones (26%) – twice the rate of those aged 55 and over (13%)
A complex and high‑risk environment
There are around 6,000 level crossings in operation across Britain, each with safety measures tailored to its location and usage. These include full or half barriers, audible alarms and flashing warning lights – all designed to protect pedestrians and road users from approaching trains.
The rail industry is urging the public to take personal responsibility when using level crossings by following simple but vital safety advice:
- Stop, look and listen. Every crossing is different, so always read the signs and follow instructions.
- Understand and obey warnings. Lights, alarms and barriers are there for a reason – never ignore them.
- Check both directions. Trains can come from either way, and more than one train may be approaching.
- Cross quickly and safely. Ensure your exit route is clear and never stop on the crossing.
Industry voices unite on safety
Rail Minister, Lord Peter Hendy, said:
“Safety on our railway is paramount and I’d urge everyone to follow this campaign’s important message and always pay attention at level crossings.
“I’m pleased to see the industry join forces for this campaign, particularly as we work to bring track and train together under Great British Railways, which will put passengers at the heart of Britain’s railway again to deliver the services they deserve.”
Priti Patel, Chief Health, Safety ＆ Wellbeing Officer at Network Rail, added:
“We know how easy it is to get distracted, whether that’s listening to a favourite podcast, looking at your phone or just taking familiar surroundings for granted. But stepping onto a level crossing without stopping to look and listen can be fatal - there are no second chances.
“That’s why the whole rail industry has come together to launch this first industry backed campaign, to raise awareness of the dangers of not paying attention when approaching a level crossing. It only takes a few seconds to stop, look and listen, that’s it - seconds that could save your life.”
Daniel Mann, Director of Industry Operations at Rail Delivery Group, said:
“Level crossings demand our full attention every single time. This campaign is a powerful reminder of why level crossing safety is so important and how a momentary lapse in judgment can have devastating consequences.
“Safety is our top priority and as Great British Railways moves closer to becoming a reality, the rail industry is working together to reinforce a clear and consistent message to stop, look and listen when using level crossings, so that everyone makes it home safely.”
Chief Inspector Joseph Gorman, of BTP, said:
“It’s vital that pedestrians and drivers pay extra care and attention at level crossings, as the consequences for misusing them can easily be catastrophic. You might think you’re simply saving some time, but if you miss or deliberately ignore the warning signs then you could be placing yourself and others in incredibly serious danger, and that is never worth it.
“We respond to incidents at level crossings every month, and through patrols, CCTV, and close work with Network Rail, we will always seek to prosecute those who misuse them. Please think wisely as you approach level crossings - be patient, and don’t take any risks.”
Linda Wain, Engineering and Safety Director at LNER, added:
"It's incredibly important to be aware of your surroundings at level-crossings. Our trains travel up to 125 miles per hour, meaning they cover 100 metres in less than two seconds, so stopping immediately is impossible. That’s why the 'No Second Chances' campaign is so important. By stopping, looking and listening at level crossings, we can protect lives and spare people from the devastation of preventable incidents."
Image and video credits: iStock & Network Rail
