Level crossing campaign launched

The State Government is reminding drivers that some things are really worth the wait.

That is the message in a new level-crossing safety campaign, launched yesterday, in a $13.3 million program over four years to improve safety.

Since 2001, 33 people have been killed at rail and tram level crossings in SA. A further 71 have been seriously injured.

“This new television, radio and print campaign reminds drivers that paying attention and waiting just a few moments can save your life and the lives of your loved ones,” Road Safety Minister Tom Koutsantonis said yesterday.

“By showing special moments from a man’s life flashing before him as a train speeds past, the advertisements pose the question – what will you miss out on if you don’t stop at a level crossing?

“The ads remind drivers that by failing to stop at a level crossing they are jeopardising their chance to live magical milestones such as weddings, the birth of a child and special occasions with family and friends.”

The National Rail Level Crossing Study, prepared by Roy Morgan Research last April, found 29 per cent of South Australians had taken risks at crossings.

Almost one in five had unknowingly crossed a rail level crossing.

Mr Koutsantonis said drivers, pedestrians and cyclists at level crossings never should queue over the crossing or try to out-run a train or evade closing boom gates.

AdelaideNow