Backgrounder

Examples of design and safety features to improve railway crossings

Research shows that improving level crossing accessibility for individuals who use wheelchairs improves safety. Possible measures to improve crossing accessibility include the following:

• Making the sidewalk perpendicular at the level crossing so that pedestrians who use wheelchairs will cross at a 90-degree angle.
• Delineating sidewalks using road and/or sidewalk markings to guide pedestrians safely over the crossing.
• Maximizing the contrast between sidewalks and adjacent surface areas.
• Adding extra lights and auditory cues to increase pedestrian awareness of trains approaching and address the needs of those with hearing and visual impairments.
• Making sure that sidewalks are level and of consistent surface type and quality.
• Changing the width of the walking surface and covering it with a noticeably different texture, ensuring that the crosswalk is smooth, continuous and slip-resistant.
• Implementing a "clear zone" to ensure that obstructions are removed from the sidewalks and approaches.
• Using flangeway fillers to minimize the likelihood of wheels becoming stuck next to rails.