Avoid Harm, Stop Before the Boom Arm

There are more than 1,200 level crossings in Queensland, and all have some form of protection including warning signs and signals. Boom arms are one of these safety measures, providing a physical barrier between motorists and the rail corridor. Once a train has passed, boom arms prevent motorists from crossing too early as there may be a train approaching from the opposite direction.

When the lights are flashing, it is important to stop clear of the crossing. Too often, motorists are ignoring the warning signs and proceeding through a crossing when the boom arms are lowering or raising. The result is often damage to safety infrastructure, a near miss or a collision with an oncoming train.

Boom arms are in place to keep you safe, not to make you late.

Safety tips

Approach level crossings with caution. Level crossing protection is in place for a reason, and if you ignore the warnings and cause damage to safety infrastructure, you are endangering your own life and that of other road users, train operators, and train passengers.

Ensure you are familiar with the road rules around level crossings.

Be aware that trains cannot stop quickly. Both passenger and freight trains operate on the Queensland Rail network, some of which can move at speeds of up to 160 kilometres an hour, and they can't swerve to avoid someone or something. A train can take up to two kilometres to stop.

Never drive around lowering boom arms — it's illegal and dangerous. Whether it's carelessness or impatience, all motorists should be aware that stopping at a level crossing may take a few minutes, but not stopping could cost a lot more.

Make sure your exit is clear — proceed through a level crossing only if you are sure you can completely clear the crossing without stopping. Never queue through a level crossing.

FLASHING LIGHTS

When the red lights are flashing, motorists must stop clear of the crossing.
Motorists must not drive through the crossing until the lights have stopped flashing, as there may be more than one train approaching.

BOOM ARMS

Motorists need to stop at the painted stop bar on the road when the lights start flashing.
Motorists must not enter the crossing until the boom arms are fully raised and the lights have stopped flashing.

ROAD MARKINGS

The cross hatching indicates the area to be kept clear (no stopping).

TRACK SIGN INDICATOR

This indicates how many tracks cross over the road at the level crossing.
More than one track means trains can come from opposite directions.

Request a presentation

Contact our Rail Safety Education team to schedule a free level crossing safety presentation. Our Community Education Coordinators are available to speak in kindergarten’s, school classrooms, and community service groups, to driver education students and company safety programs.

Learn more about level crossing safety.