Level crossing refers to the intersection of a road with a railway. It is completely forbidden to cross the level crossing in the event of the barrier being lowered or red lights on. An automatic camera system could detect who commits this infraction! But when will the fines start? Here’s everything you need to know!
The rail crossing it is one of the most dangerous intersections on the roads. In fact, this area allows the passage of both trains and cars – obviously not at the same time – regulated by a special bar and green or red lights, depending on whether or not the passage is allowed at a certain time!
There are several differences between the various level steps. Certainly the most dangerous ones are those unattended. In fact, they are signaled by the presence of a special sign and by distance panels. The absence of the barrier, however, increases the risk of crossing as the wagons arrive.
THE guarded level crossings, on the other hand, they provide for the presence of a mechanical barrier that is lowered with the arrival of the train! The bar rises only after the train has moved away, triggering specific devices!
But what has changed in relation to level crossings? Here’s everything you need to know about installing level crossing cameras! The risk of incurring very heavy fines is just around the corner! From when will this measure take effect?
Fines with cameras at level crossings: when will these measures take effect?
In Italy, at the moment, there are over 4,000 level crossings. Most of them are located on secondary roads or secondary railway lines. This is to limit the daily intersections between cars and trains and to ensure greater safety for everyone. But what happens in case of unauthorized passage? A fine with a camera can put you off the ‘urge’ to go against the law!
In 2020 alone – the year in which less people traveled due to the pandemic – more than 2,000 deaths were recorded due to road accidents. Unfortunately, some fatal accidents occurred near the level crossings. The reason? Non-compliance with signs and warnings and the lack of responsibility of some motorists.
But what has happened now to block the risk of accidents at the various level crossings? The Highway Code regarding the level crossing has changed thanks to a conversion law of the Infrastructure decree! In fact, for some months now, it has been possible, according to the law, to activate a camera system at all the various level crossings!
Anyone who crosses a level crossing when it is not allowed – red light, lowered barrier or other – risks very severe fines and 6 points withdrawn from the driving license. Police checks on these passages, however, are infrequent for obvious reasons. A control system with cameras could make it possible to find the ‘smart guys’ and those who decide to put their own life and that of others at risk.
The bureaucratic problem!
But unfortunately, for the moment everything is at a standstill. In fact, bureaucratic difficulties prevented the installation of cameras on the various level crossings. Despite the approval of the law and the change in the Highway Code, it will still take a long time before these automatic checks with cameras actually start!
They can be installed by the railway or road operator, but there is no obligation. In addition, the cameras must be approved by the Ministry of Infrastructure, as happens – for example – for speed cameras. How long will it take?
