A train collision with a car at Redcar level crossing on 1 May 2024 has prompted a safety investigation by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB), which found multiple failings in signalling procedures and infrastructure that led to the incident.
At approximately 09:25, a Saltburn to Nunthorpe passenger service struck a car at Redcar level crossing, located in Redcar and Cleveland. The train was travelling at 23 mph (37 km/h) at the time of the collision. While passengers and train staff were uninjured, the car’s driver sustained injuries and the vehicle was significantly damaged.
Signal Passed at Danger
The investigation revealed that the signaller had opened the crossing to road traffic after the passage of a previous train and subsequently forgot it remained open. When they later attempted to route the next train into Redcar Central station, the signalling system correctly prevented the protecting signal from clearing because the crossing was still open.
However, rather than realising the crossing had not been closed, the signaller authorised the train to pass the signal at danger (SPAD). Without the crossing gates being lowered or the wig-wag road warning lights activating, a car proceeded onto the crossing seconds before the train arrived, leading to the collision.
RAIB noted that the signaller’s routine was likely disrupted by a telephone call and a perceived fault with the panel, contributing to the oversight.
Missed Visual and Procedural Cues
The investigation also found that available visual and procedural cues indicating the crossing was open were either missed or ineffective. Additionally, the layout of controls and lack of ergonomic assessment at Redcar signal box may have played a role in the incident.
Train crew procedures also came under scrutiny. The driver did not approach the crossing at a speed that would allow stopping within sighting distance — a key expectation when passing a signal at danger. Moreover, the unusual design of the crossing gates made it difficult for the driver to see they were open to road traffic.
No Automatic Warning System at Crossing
Critically, Redcar level crossing lacked engineered systems to automatically activate wig-wag warning lights when a train approaches. This left road users unaware of the train’s imminent arrival until it was too late.
Concerns Over Competence Management
RAIB identified concerns with Network Rail’s processes for managing signaller competence. The signaller involved had previous operational incidents, but these had not been adequately addressed.
Recommendations and Learning Points
RAIB has issued a formal recommendation to Network Rail to review ergonomic risks associated with signal and crossing operations at Redcar signal box.
Three key learning points were also published:
- Signallers must confirm the route is safe before authorising a train to pass a signal at danger.
- Train drivers should drive at caution when approaching controlled level crossings after being authorised past a signal at danger.
- Signallers must clearly inform drivers about the presence and location of controlled level crossings on affected routes.
RAIB emphasised that its investigations are focused on preventing future incidents, not placing blame or pursuing prosecutions.
