Van vs Train Chaos at Alsager Level Crossing
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has revealed fresh details after a delivery van collided with a train at Home Farm user-worked level crossing near Alsager on Saturday, 11 February 2023, at around 1pm.
Near Miss Turns Collision
The crash happened because the van drove onto the crossing while a train was barreling down the tracks. The driver managed to stop before the train arrived, but the van’s front was still dangerously close—and got hit. The train driver spotted the van 3-4 seconds before impact, hit the brakes, and blasted the horn, but the 30 mph (48 km/h) train couldn’t stop in time.
Thankfully, no one was hurt. But while the passengers walked away safe, the van was severely damaged, and the train suffered some dents.
Driver Ignored Crucial Safety Rules
Signs at Home Farm make it clear: drivers must call the signaller and get permission before crossing. Why? Because visibility along these tracks is poor, and guessing is too risky. RAIB’s checks show the van driver didn’t make the call.
RAIB Issues Warning After Repeat Incident
RAIB won’t launch a full probe this time but warns this crash echoes a similar one at Frognal Farm in 2017 involving a delivery vehicle.
They’ve written to the delivery company, demanding a driver safety briefing and urging the firm to raise the issue in industry meetings. Copies of the letter have been sent to Network Rail, the Office of Rail and Road, the Department for Transport, and the Health and Safety Executive.
Good news for safety fans: the Department for Transport plans to roll out new, clearer signs for user-worked crossings like Home Farm to tackle these reckless moments.
