RO-1996-103

A utility travelling west on Victoria Street, Waipawa on Wednesday 27 March 1996 moved onto the level crossing ahead of an approaching train. The level crossing alarms, consisting of flashing lights and bells, were operating. A collision resulted in which injuries sustained by the driver and front seat passenger subsequently proved fatal. The causal factor was the utility driver's apparent failure to see and respond to the warning devices. Safety issues identified were the effectiveness of the warning system in particular sunlight conditions and the available view at the crossing.