11:00 AM
Motorists must start taking level crossings seriously as Tranz Rail operates more daytime trains, according to the Automobile Association.
Safety inspectors are still investigating yesterday's crash between a stock truck and the Southerner Express south of Timaru.
AA spokesman Geordie Cassin says there are more than 1400 rail crossings throughout the country, and half have no active controls.
He says only two of the accidents in the last 16 years have been caused by warning devices failing.
Mr Cassin says Tranz Rail and the LTSA have been working to improve safety at crossings.
He says with Tranz Rail's restructuring, which will see more freight trains running, the responsibility is now on drivers to take more care when they approach rail crossings.
- IRN
21 hurt as train and truck collide
Motorists warned to take care at level crossings
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