Ōtaki MP and Associate Minister of Transport Nathan Guy has marked Rail Safety Week by unveiling a billboard at the intersection of SH1 and Kimberley Road, just north of Kāpiti.
“This is a reminder for drivers to take care and stay safe around level crossings,” says Mr Guy.
“Over the last decade there were 55 deaths at level crossings and 97 people were killed as a result of trespassing on train tracks.
“The Government contributes up to $1 million per year to upgrade level crossings with warning lights, bells, and half-arm barriers.
“Of course there is only so much the Government can do – the decisions that people make at level crossings are often the difference between life and death.
“A little patience and commonsense will help reduce these preventable tragedies.”
Rail Safety Week aims to improve safety at rail crossings and reduce trespassing on rail tracks. It is coordinated by KiwiRail and the Chris Cairns Foundation.