Just drive past the falling railway barriers, while the lights of the level crossing are already flashing: It was already not allowed, but now you can also be flashed and receive a fine.
In a new measure to improve road safety, ProRail, in collaboration with the Public Prosecution Service, has started installing speed cameras at railway crossings throughout the Netherlands. This development comes in response to the ongoing trend of drivers of cars, mopeds, trucks and buses ignoring red signals at railway crossings, an action that is not only illegal but also life-threatening.
The introduction of this new enforcement method was made possible in part by financial support from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management. The first tests with this system took place in Bunnik, where the effectiveness of the cameras was tested. These tests have now been completed and have made way for actual enforcement. In case of violation, drivers can now count on hefty fines, ranging up to 280 euros for motorists, motorcyclists and truck drivers. The fine amount for moped and light moped riders has been set at 190 euros.
Harro Homan, regional director at ProRail, emphasizes that the purpose of this measure is not to issue fines, but to change the behavior of road users. He refers to an earlier trial in Hilversum, where after six months the number of violations decreased by 50%. “Ignoring the railway installation leads to life-threatening situations. We know that speed cameras work then,” says Homan. It is expected that this new measure will contribute to improving safety on both rail and road.
The cameras cause people to change their behavior. This makes the rail and road safer.
The advanced cameras have been specially developed for detecting violations at railway crossings. These smart systems analyze images and store them in the event of a potential violation. The images are then assessed by special investigating officers, and if violations are found, the driver receives a fine at home via the CJIB.
After the successful implementation in Bunnik, ProRail plans to enter into discussions with other municipalities for further rollout of this system. About 40 level crossings are taken into account. Each situation requires a unique approach, adapted to the specific traffic situation of each municipality and level crossing.
