New level crossings warning for satnavs

Some satnav systems will be fitted with new technology which gives a warning when the car is approaching a level crossing.

Network Rail and Garmin have developed the technology which sounds a train whistle to alert the driver that he is nearing a crossing and therefore works in a similar way to the many systems which now emit sounds to warn drivers of speed cameras ahead. The technology is also able to give drivers a route which will avoid crossing altogether if they wish.

The Rail and Safety Standards Board says that the last decade alone has seen 141 collisions involving trains and cars at level crossings but this does not take into account the many more near misses including cars trying to beat red lights and get across before the train causes a delay.

Martin Gallagher, head of level crossings at Network Rail, says that drivers who do try and beat the train and smash into barriers cause great disruption and cost to the network. He said that an app to warn drivers of level crossings is a good idea and potentially a useful aid to motorists.

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/news/9492401/Satnav-systems-being-fi...