Dubbo police targeting level crossing areas under new campaign #traintostop

Traffic and Highway Patrol Command Senior Sergeant Michael Timms said the campaign targeting Dubbo and surrounds was one of 70 delivered in partnership with Transport for NSW over the last seven years.

He said police believe the campaigns were helping, given there had been no fatalities at level crossing crashes last financial year. 

“They have made a big difference between the number of incidents between trains and level crossings,” Sgt. Timms said. 

“Unfortunately we still have about 10 crashes a year so it’s really important we get out to local communities like this one and reinforce the message that people do need to train to stop.

“It is about education as well, it’s not just about enforcement, we need the community to come with us on this and be doing the right thing around level crossings.”  

Watch the press conference below. Story continues after video. 

He said Transport for NSW and RMS put out extra signs to remind people about the need to obey level crossing controls. 

“Whether it be boom gates ... or just flashing lights or stop signs people do need to make sure they’re travelling to the conditions and obeying those controls,” Sgt Timms said. 

He said as part of the campaign there would be more policing of level crossings by Highway Patrol and Dubbo police officers.

“Hopefully by the end of the campaign … we’ll make sure there’s safety around level crossings.” 

He said crashes at level crossings mostly happen during broad-daylight. 

“It happens because people just aren’t watching for trains, people, particularly local residents, tend to get complacent around stop signs, they think there’s no likelihood a train would come,” Sgt Timms said. 

”Its really important, wherever you are in NSW … you comply with these signs.”

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