Security at level crossings: urgent need for action required!
Security at level crossings: urgent need for action required!
On January 8, 2025, an incident occurred at a level crossing on the B26 in Willendorf, in which the light signal was not showing a warning signal, even though a train came. This fact was confirmed by a witness. It was shown that the light signs were neither red nor yellow. The train was on the move 1 and occupied with two train drivers, an instructor and an apprentice. The red light circuit of the signal is manually using radio remote control for travel direction 1 and via switch -on sensors in the track for travel direction 2 (Wiener Neustadt).
The ÖBB plans to reduce the number of railway crossings in Austria to increase security. There are over 2,900 railway crossings on the ÖBB network, while technical defects that lead to a complete failure of light signal systems are extremely rare. A spokesman for ÖBB, Christopher Seif, said that the exact cause of the accident in Willendorf is currently being determined. Alkotests from both railcars and the truck driver showed negative values. The circumstances, which is why the warning signal has not been activated, are currently the focus of the examinations.
dialogue about security at level crossings
There are clear rules of conduct for crossing the level crossings that are set in the road traffic regulations and the railway crossing regulations. Street users have to adjust their speed in order to be able to stop and convince themselves of the view and acoustic signals whether safe translation is possible. Correct behavior could help prevent traffic accidents at level crossings. The question of guilt is usually attributed to street users who disregard applicable regulations.
An essential goal remains to improve security at level crossings. Accidents at these transitions are rare compared to total accidents in road traffic, but often serious. Technical security measures at non -secured level crossings are recommended to minimize the risks, while an adaptation of the deadlines for checking such systems is also required from five to at least ten years.
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