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Accidents in Scotland caused by gate-free railway crossings are thankfully reasonably rare. However when an accident does occur, it usually has tragic consequences.
Although there are few level crossings without barriers in Scotland, visitors to may be unused to such crossings and may not realise the potential danger they can cause. Although signs are in place warning road users of the lack of barriers, these may go unnoticed, especially if drivers have not come across this type of crossing before. Seeing the crossing clear, road users may cross the tracks without first checking for oncoming trains.
In September 2009, three people were killed while using one of the 23 un-gated crossings in Scotland. Believing the way was clear, the driver went to cross the tracks but was hit by a train before reaching the other side. All of the car’s inhabitants died at the scene.
Speaking at the time of the tragedy, Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Tavish Scott MSP said, "We need to know what immediate action has [been] taken as a stop-gap to prevent any more loss of life. Public confidence needs to be restored in rail safety crossings."
While an investigation into the incident found neither the train driver nor the signage to be at fault, calls have been made to convert the remaining barrier-less crossings into more conventional gated crossings. Following the accident, trains have also been approaching the crossings at 20mph to try and prevent a similar tragedy re-occurring.
Visitors to Scotland who plan to drive around the country should take extra care when approaching level crossings in case they are the gate-less variety. Signs warning of level crossings without barriers depict a locomotive in a red warning triangle or a give way sign in with a red-framed white cross sign above and a locomotive below.
If you have been involved in an accident in Scotland which you believe was not your fault, give YouClaim a ring.
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At YouClaim, we are sensitive to the trauma and upset an accident in Scotland can bring. Our experienced team of personal injury solicitors can help you gain compensation for any suffering you have endured due to the negligence of others.
Our friendly advisers are waiting to take your call, so why not pick up your phone and find out if you can claim compensation for your accident in Scotland.
