Footage has been released of a string of near-misses at level train crossings across South Australia as the state government issued a warning about dangerous behaviour.
While accidents and near misses have decreased by 50 per cent compared to last year, 79 incidents have still been reported this year.
At the same time last year, 146 incidents had been reported.
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The moments can be fatal, and play on the minds of train drivers.
“It’s an incident that we go home and replay in our minds,” train driver Nick Smart said.
“These incidents don’t occur due to a train being in the wrong place. They occur because of people’s complacency and impatience,” he added.
A train simulator, the only one of its kind in the state, is believed to be partly responsible for the drop in dangerous incidents. The transport department says it prepares drivers for a range of dangerous scenarios.
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Despite technological failsafes, drivers and the government say residents need to follow the rules to stay safe.
“Don’t go through flashing lights. Don’t go through pedestrian-activated crossings. Don’t try and beat a train,” Transport Minister Tom Koutsantonis said.
People found ignoring safety signs or obstructing level crossings face fines of up to $2500.
This article was produced with the assistance of 9ExPress.
