Tragic Incident at Bax User Worked Crossing
On 13 July 2025, at approximately 12:42, a passenger train travelling from Ramsgate to London Victoria collided with a stationary delivery van at the Bax user worked crossing near Teynham in Kent. The train was moving at a speed of around 71 mph (114 km/h) at the moment of impact, resulting in the tragic fatality of the van’s driver.
The Bax crossing is equipped with outward-opening gates on either side of the railway and features an overlay miniature stop light system. This system displays a green light when no trains are approaching, which transitions to red with an accompanying audible warning once a train is detected. Signs at the crossing instruct users to verify that a green light is illuminated before opening both gates, crossing with a vehicle, and subsequently closing the gates.
Investigations conducted by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) revealed that the delivery van was stationary on the level crossing due to the green light displayed by the miniature stop light system. The driver mistakenly believed it was safe to enter the crossing after opening the entry gate, despite the exit gate remaining closed. Furthermore, the signage and absence of road markings did not adequately guide the delivery driver to follow the correct procedures for using the crossing safely.
Underlying Issues Identified in Safety Protocols
One of the significant underlying factors identified was a project aimed at developing new signage for private crossings like Bax. This initiative failed to sufficiently consider the impact of diverse information sources on user behaviour at crossings. Additionally, the investigation found that after Network Rail installed miniature stop lights at crossings, the likelihood of further enhancements diminished, leading to a heavy reliance on the understanding and compliance of signage for safe crossing usage.
Moreover, the training and guidance provided to the self-employed delivery driver working for a logistics company did not equip them with the necessary skills for safe crossing operations. Although not directly linked to the accident on 13 July 2025, RAIB noted the existence of varying interpretations of what constitutes an authorised user within railway processes for risk identification and assessment at level crossings.
Recommendations for Enhanced Safety Measures
In light of the findings, RAIB has put forth four key recommendations. The first recommendation calls upon Network Rail to undertake a review of the design of user worked crossings to mitigate risks for users. This recommendation is supported by a second one urging the Department for Transport to collaborate with the Office of Rail and Road and other relevant rail industry bodies in Great Britain to update legal requirements and guidance for road users pertaining to user worked level crossings.
The third recommendation, directed at the Health and Safety Executive, advocates for a review of the guidance provided to organisations employing drivers or engaging self-employed individuals regarding the safe use of user worked crossings. The fourth recommendation seeks a reassessment by Network Rail of the concept of the role of authorised users in the guidance disseminated to its staff.
Call to Action from RAIB Leadership
Andrew Hall, Chief Inspector of Rail Accidents, emphasised the importance of these recommendations, stating, “This report elucidates the factors that resulted in the death of a delivery van driver at Bax crossing in Kent in July 2025 and proposes measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.” Hall also referenced a subsequent fatality involving another delivery van driver at a user worked crossing in Lancashire in August 2026, underscoring the potential risks these crossings pose to both drivers and train passengers.
He remarked, “Private user worked crossings, a concept originating in the 19th century, are now challenged by the complexities of a 21st-century landscape characterised by denser and faster rail services, rural housing, and an increase in home deliveries. Many road users lack familiarity with these crossings and the protocols for using them safely.”
Hall further noted a past incident in October 2017, where a delivery van driver sustained serious injuries at a user worked crossing in Kent. He reiterated the necessity for a comprehensive approach to manage user worked crossings effectively, considering the needs and expectations of individuals who encounter them.
Commitment to Future Safety Improvements
RAIB operates with the singular aim of preventing future accidents and enhancing railway safety, without establishing blame or liability. The organisation is dedicated to maintaining transparency throughout its investigative processes, ensuring that any safety concerns are promptly communicated to relevant parties. Moving forward, the rail industry, domestic delivery sector, and regulatory bodies must collaborate to address these pressing safety issues to avert further tragedies.