Crash train 'authorised' to pass danger signal

The crash happened at a level crossing on 1 May

A signaller who failed to close barriers ahead of a train crash permitted its driver to pass a signal indicating danger ahead, the body investigating the crash has said.

At about 09:25 BST on 1 May, a passenger train struck a car at a level crossing in Redcar, dragging the vehicle along the tracks.

The government's Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has launched an investigation into the crash.

A spokesman said investigators will consider anything that might have influenced the actions of the signaller and train driver.

The train was travelling between Saltburn and Nunthorpe when the crash happened at a level crossing close to the town's centre.

At the time, Network Rail said nobody in either the car or on board the train - which was carrying nine passengers and staff - was injured.

However, the RAIB has now said the driver was hurt and "significant damage was caused to the car".

Red light

The crossing is fitted with lights, signals and barriers that span the width of the road.

On the morning of the crash, the barrier had not been properly closed to traffic.

A statement from the RAIB said: "Before the collision occurred, the driver of the train had been authorised by the signaller to pass a signal which was showing a red (danger) aspect.

"The signal involved provided protection to two level crossings, including Redcar."

RAIB investigators will now try to establish what led to the incident by considering the following points:

• The actions of the signaller and the train driver involved and anything which may have influenced them

• The management of the staff involved in the accident, including their training and competence

• Engineered safeguards within the signalling and level crossing control system

• Any underlying management factors

The investigation is independent of any that may be conducted by the railway industry or its regulator.

Findings will be eventually published to the public, along with any safety recommendations.