This is how you free yourself from the trap

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The videos leave you speechless: Cars are repeatedly “caught” at level crossings between barriers – whether it’s an accident at Uster ZH, an accident at Davos GR or – again in Uster – a case that turned out well. Just shake your head.

But it does. So what should be done when the rail barriers are closed in front and behind the car? to break! BLICK shows a video of the Austrian ÖBB showing this in a real test. But first the obvious: You only cross a level crossing if neither the light nor the sound signal is active. Otherwise, he will be fined 250 francs. And only if there is enough space for the car behind it. If the traffic is slow, you have not kept enough distance and you stop at the intersection, 80 francs must be paid.

Use advance warning

This happens and warning signals start flashing and sounding as you stop at the crossing: speed up and away. Immediately! It is not in vain that there are always a few seconds of warning before the barriers close. But where? Anyway, go. Be it next to cars ahead, or carefully (pedestrians!) step onto the curb, or even back into the opposite lane. You should even risk rim or body damage rather than colliding with the train.

What if it’s too late and the barrier is lifted? Hit the road now and break the barrier. Barriers collapse and have predetermined breaking points (usually in the middle) where they bend or break. With a little luck, there will be almost no damage to the car. It’s just barrier scrap, car insurance pays for it.

Just in case

If you panic or do not dare to pass: do not think twice, do not even maneuver and do not take anything with you, get out of the car immediately. Immediately! Trains are fast and today right after the train barriers close. Go away: The car or its parts may come flying. Dial an emergency number (ideally police 117 or otherwise 144 or 112). If you know where the train is coming from and it is safe to walk(!) next to the embankment: Run towards the train and warn the driver.

Source: Blick