New research reveals that dangerous overconfidence is putting young people at risk at railway level crossings across the country.
Despite 80 per cent of 18 to 34-year-olds claiming to understand the dangers, the same number fail to recognise key warning signs of an approaching train.
The findings come amid the launch of No Second Chances, the first industry-wide level crossing safety campaign from train operators, Network Rail and British Transport Police.
Priti Patel, chief health, safety and wellbeing officer at Network Rail, said: “We know how easy it is to get distracted, whether that’s listening to a favourite podcast, looking at your phone or just taking familiar surroundings for granted.
“But stepping onto a level crossing without stopping to look and listen can be fatal – there are no second chances.
“It only takes a few seconds to stop, look and listen, that’s it – seconds that could save your life.”
Young adults surveyed admitted to distracted behaviours at crossings, including talking to others (28 per cent), using their phones (24 per cent) and not removing headphones (26 per cent).
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Ninety-four per cent of Brighton respondents did not know that a train travelling at 80mph takes about a mile to stop, while 69 per cent believed they could move out of the way in time if a train appeared.
There are 216 level crossings in operation across the Sussex route, with various safety features including barriers, sirens and flashing lights.
Samantha Facey, safety, health and security director for Southern, Thameslink and Gatwick Express, said: “Railway tracks are a very, very dangerous place to be.
“Our trains travel faster than cars on motorways and take up to a mile to stop in an emergency.
“Keep your wits about you on level crossings, and please don’t use phones or headphones when crossing to ensure you stay safe and alive.”
The rail industry is urging the public to stop, look and listen at all crossings, obey warning signs, check both directions for trains and cross quickly when safe to do so.
The campaign follows recent tragic incidents at level crossings and comes as the rail industry moves towards a unified Great British Railways.