A level crossing is an interface between road and rail infrastructure. According to the UNECE 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic and the Highway Code, trains have priority, whilst road users and pedestrians must comply with road signs and signals in order to cross safely and consequently prevent any collision arising from misuse or inappropriate behaviour and potentially endangering train passengers, crew and other users.
Using a level crossing is safe as long as users cross properly. Nevertheless, risks still exist and the consequences of a collision between trains and commercial vehicles can be dramatic.
In December 2021 and in the framework of the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030, the International Road Federation (IRF) partnered with the International Union of Railways (UIC) and Operation Lifesaver Estonia (OLE) to raise awareness about level crossing safety amongst light-vehicle drivers and thus contribute to the reduction of collisions and related casualties. In 2022 the three organisations renewed their commitment to producing three additional safety flyers, this time addressed to pedestrians, cyclists, and people with reduced mobility. All flyers are available below and have been produced in English, French, and Spanish.
For any questions, please contact us at info@irfnet.ch.
Flyers for Light Vehicle Drivers
Flyers for Motorbikes and Scooters
Flyers for Cyclists and Users of Micro Mobility Devices
Flyers for Pedestrians
Flyers for Persons with Reduced Mobility
The International Road Federation (IRF) is a global, not-for-profit and membership-based organisation with headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. Active since 1948, its mission is to support the development of road networks that enable access and sustainable mobility for all.
The International Union of Railways (UIC) is a global not-for-profit association founded in 1922 and based in Paris representing the railway sector and promoting rail transport. ILCAD is part of the UIC centenary programme of major events.
Operation Lifesaver Estonia (OLE) is an international, non-profit education and awareness programme dedicated to ending tragic collisions, fatalities, and injuries at highway-rail grade crossings and on railroad rights of way. To accomplish its mission, Operation Lifesaver promotes the 3 Es: Education, Enforcement, and Engineering.