Motorists warned over risk of jumping red light at level crossing after near misses

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Motorists are being warned they are dicing with death by driving through red lights at Cornton level crossing. Rail bosses and cops have united to condemn “a series of incidents” and say there as been “a worrying trend of misuse” at the crossing over the past year.MSP Evelyn Tweed added that ignoring warning signs can be “deadly”.A joint statement read: “Network Rail Scotland and British Transport Police (BTP) are warning of the dangers of misusing the railway following a series of incidents at the Cornton level crossing.“Most of the incidents in the past year relate to drivers failing to stop when the red light is being signalled at the crossing which, as well as being incredibly dangerous, can result in the driver receiving three penalty points and a fine of £100.”Tailed-back traffic at the crossing - controlled by a timer system - recently prompted concerns from local road users.

But rail bosses responded to say safety should not be compromised.Network Rail route director for Scotland, Liam Sumpter said: “Misusing a level crossing can be incredibly dangerous.“Ignoring warning signs and instructions can have devastating repercussions and we want to warn the public not to put their lives at risk.”BTP Inspector Michael Magee, added: “Each year, hundreds of people take risks on and around the railway, resulting in tragic consequences and life-changing injuries.“We are continuing to proactively patrol the railway network across Scotland.“Safety is our number one priority and we’re reminding everyone of the importance of taking care around the railway and that everyone loses when you step on the track.”Click here for more news and sport from the Stirling area.The warnings came in advance of International Level Crossing