Uxbridge level crossing incident example of reckless driving

Earlier today, I was informed by Metrorail Regional Manager, Richard Walker, of an incident that occurred at Uxbridge Level Crossing (Between False Bay and Lakeside) involving a reckless driver. The driver allegedly ignored instructions by a Metrorail Protection Services official, resulting in the driver’s vehicle being struck by an oncoming train.

According to reports,  a case was opened at Muizenberg SAPS after the motorist allegedly ignored road signage and the Officer's warnings to stop for an oncoming train at this morning at 11:30.  Initial reports point to the driver of the vehicle having disobeyed instructions to reduce speed, proceeding to circumvent the boom, and attempting to run the official over at the Uxbridge level crossing.

The oncoming train then reportedly struck the front of the vehicle. Fortunately no injuries were reported during this incident that resulted in the inbound track having to be closed while SAPS investigated.

This incident is yet another reminder of the consequences of reckless and irresponsible driving, which are often fatal. Incidents, particularly at level crossings, have claimed many lives in the past. As the Western Cape Government and Metrorail (in partnership with the various municipalities that still have level-crossings in them), we continue to do all we can to make level-crossings safer where their elimination altogether is not possible.  Reckless drivers like the one involved in this morning’s incident do nothing to help the cause when they seemingly disregard road rules, and act with no consideration for others.

All road users must exercise extreme caution on our roads, particularly when they interact with level-crossings. Adherence to traffic signs and the instructions of crossing attendants is a non-negotiable. I hope that this morning’s perpetrator is brought to justice soon, thereby showing others that lawlessness and disregarding road rules is not only dangerous, but simply will not be tolerated.