Train crash chances were 'one in 15 million'

The Berkshire train crash was a one in 15 million event, according to research into level crossing accidents.

The research showed that the chances of an accident happening at any particular crossing due to a motorist failing to observe stop signals were one in 15.3 million.

The figure was presented at a rail safety conference in Burma in October 2000.

Technology to ensure there will be even less chance of passengers being involved in such a collision is being developed worldwide but is still some way off being introduced.

Countries have been looking at technology which will detect a blockage at a level crossing and relay back the information to a train driver’s cab.

But such a system would be extremely expensive and its implementation could prove extremely difficult.

Andrew Grantham, industry editor at the Railway Gazette publication, said today: “There would be a host of difficulties with these schemes. Getting the information to drivers’ cabs would be hampered by the presence of tunnels and cuttings and by poor reception in some areas.

“There are companies who are working on things like this, but you have to look at the cost. It could mean an increase in fares and that would be no good if it forced train passengers back on to the roads where there is much greater risk of accidents.”