Drivers who are impatient at level crossings 'are endangering lives'

Date: 24/5/2010

Motorists are putting their lives at risk at level crossings in Kent, experts have suggested.

According to Kent News, drivers are still going under or around the level crossing barriers in Ingram Road, Gillingham, which means their vehicles could actually be hit by a train.

Officers from the British Transport Police held an event in the area to encourage them to act in a safe manner when approaching level crossings.

Inspector Ed Walden told the publication: "Some people are prepared to put their life and the safety of other innocent people at risk just to save time at level crossings."

He added patience when at these junctions is essential, otherwise individuals are put in dangerous situations.

The UK railway network has more than 7,600 level crossings on both public and private land and approximately 2,000 motorists and people on foot are alleged to have misused a crossing every year, resulting in death or injury.