By Sasha Oelsner
Published: Thursday, August 3, 2023
Rail is a great way to travel. It’s usually very reliable, faster than the bus and you can sit back, read a book and not worry about the traffic.
Whether you’re an avid public transport supporter or you drive, cycle or walk, you are still sharing the road with light rail, freight trains and trams. There will be times you’ll find yourself waiting for, passing in front of, or crossing behind these lumbering metal beasts.
Despite Australia’s train network being in existence for almost 170 years, we continue to see incidents around platforms and tracks.
The statistics speak for themselves. Between 2016 and 2022, there were an average of 84 fatalities per year – or seven a month – at level crossings in Australia. On top of that, there were 27 life-changing injuries and 1,800 level crossing and trespassing near misses. These numbers show we still need to take care on and around railway tracks.
In recognition of Rail Safety Week, which is 7-13 August, take our quick quiz. Learn about rail travel around the world while staying safe near the tracks.
