Watchdog flags crossing risk after Metro crash

A pedestrian was hit by a Metro train on 18 April on the Blue House Lane footpath in Sunderland

A rail watchdog has highlighted the risk pedestrians face at some level crossings after a person was hit by a Metro train.

The accident happened on the Blue House Lane footpath in Sunderland on 18 April, according to the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB).

A preliminary investigation found there was a risk at the site that an approaching train may be hidden to a pedestrian by a previously passing train. However, RAIB found there was signage to warn people about the hazard.

Tyne and Wear Metro operator Nexus said it was "reassured" by the finding.

The watchdog said the crash was similar to one which occurred in Surrey in April 2022, causing the death of an 85-year-old woman.

RAIB's investigation into that incident led to Network Rail fitting new signage to all level crossings with two lines or more.

The signs read: "Oncoming trains can be hidden by other trains" as well as containing a warning for users "not to cross until all lines are clear".

It said the signage had been fitted at Blue House Lane footpath, which is managed by Network Rail, at the time.

'Be alert at crossings'

RAIB said the driver of the Metro had been able to apply the emergency brake before hitting the pedestrian on the crossing.

Nevertheless, the walker suffered "serious injuries", it said.

Due to the watchdog's earlier report about the risk of trains being hidden by other trains at some level crossings, RAIB said it was unlikely a full investigation into this latest incident would lead to any new safety improvement recommendations.

This meant it would not investigate further, though it did say it had written to the Office for Rail and Road (ORR) to "draw attention" to the incident and highlight the industry's "current and future management of this known risk".

Nexus urged members of the public to follow the guidance of signs and stay alert at foot crossings.

"Our thoughts and best wishes remain with those involved in the incident on 18 April," it said.

The ORR said its investigation, which was separate from RAIB's, was still ongoing and therefore it could not comment.

Network Rail said it "acknowledged" the RAIB's findings and continued to take "proactive steps" to improve rail safety.