Cardboard train targets drivers on autopilot

The Expect A Train campaign aims to get local drivers off "autopilot" mode when crossing rural railway tracks.

A joint campaign has been launched to improve rail safety in the Ruapehu district.

The Expect A Train campaign aims to get local drivers off "autopilot" mode when crossing rural railway tracks.

A joint NZ Transport Agency, KiwiRail and TrackSAFE NZ campaign, Expect A Train includes the installation of a locomotive-size billboard at the Matapuna Road (Horopito) level crossing, along with warning signs. The billboard and signs act as a visual reminder for drivers to slow down and check for real trains before they cross the tracks.

Like many rural level crossings, the Matapuna Road level crossing is protected by stop signs only, without flashing lights, bells or barrier arms.

Dave Robson from NZTA said research showed that local drivers can become overly familiar with the crossing and often don't perceive the risk of rural level crossings to be very high.

"This complacency can lead to risky behaviour like failing to carefully look for trains before crossing railway tracks. We really want drivers in rural areas to take notice of level crossings and the life-sized train billboard should help them do that," Mr Robson said.

The Ruapehu region was chosen for the campaign as there have been at least 15 level crossing incidents over a six-year period within the district. This is on the higher side, considering it's a sparsely populated region that interacts with approximately 14 planned trains a day which pass through the crossing (not including specials, work trains, charter services, etc) on this section of the North Island main trunk line.

The Matapuna Road level crossing had a vehicle and train collision in 2013 which resulted in one occupant in the vehicle being seriously injured.