An Alton man has been fined for driving without due care and attention after driving through warning lights at the Station Hill level crossing in Farnham on March 8, 2022.

Matthew Gay, 43, of Salisbury Close, Alton, pleaded guilty to the offence at Basingstoke Magistrates’ Court last Thursday. He was fined £165, told to pay a £34 victim surcharge and given three points on his licence.

PC Richard Marks, British Transport Police’s investigating officer in the case, said: “There is no viable excuse for rushing through a level crossing – Gay’s sloppy actions that morning put himself and railway passengers in danger.

“Level crossings must be taken seriously, and I’m pleased to see that careless drivers are being punished for not taking due care and attention when using them.

“Have a little patience and wait for the signal to tell you it’s safe to cross – it really isn’t worth risking yours and others’ lives just to save a few minutes.”

There are more than 7,000 level crossings across the UK railway network.

There are several different types of level crossing, but the British Transport Police’s safety message remains the same regardless of which one you use: Be sensible and pay attention to warning signs.

  • As you approach the crossing, be ready to stop behind the white line if the lights begin to flash.
  • Only cross when the barriers are fully raised and the lights go off, or when you are granted permission by an operator.
  • If the red lights keep flashing after a train has passed, wait – another train is coming.
  • If the amber light comes on while you are on the crossing then you must keep going.
  • Never reverse onto or over the level crossing.
  • Keep children with you at all times near a level crossing.
  • Keep dogs on a lead.