File image. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
A representative for train drivers is pleading with railway crossing signal jumpers not to take the risk of crossing while signals are going, after complaints about frequent false signals at the site of a crash.
One person was seriously injured when a car was hit by a train at a level crossing at Norfolk Road in Carterton on Friday.
A nearby resident told RNZ that frequent false signals at the crossing meant it was common for drivers to ignore warning signals when they were going and just drive through, particularly when long queues formed. There had been at least one near miss there previously, and they had contacted KiwiRail to try to get action because they were afraid the risks would continue.
But Rail and Maritime Transport Union head Todd Valster said crossing against the signals was not worth risking a crash that could profoundly impact all those involved.
"They're horrendous events, both for motorists and for the crew on the train, so that needs to be considered it's not just the motorist that suffers here, it's the train crew as well.
"Do the right thing and stop on the crossings when the alarms are going."
Valster said other safer options than rail level crossings are available, but would be unattainable for much of New Zealand.
KiwiRail said it was working on improvements at the Carterton level crossing where the crash happened.
Wagon movements in a log-train yard nearby were activating the bells and lights there, it said.
It understood motorists' were frustrated, but urged people to be cautious, and to come to complete stop when the lights and bells were going at the intersection.
No one on board the train was injured in the crash, but the crossing was damaged.