Horrible level crossing accident: Train hits car after incorrect opening!

Horrible level crossing accident: Train hits car after incorrect opening!

On Monday, October 23, 2025, a dangerous incident occurred in Osterholz-Scharmbeck when a regional train hit a car at a level crossing. According to the police, the barriers were apparently opened too early, which led to this dangerous situation. The accident took place after the first train had passed the route and the barrier was mistakenly raised again before the fatal train rolled on.

Of a total of three cars that passed through the crossing, one was hit by the approaching train. The train driver, a 49-year-old, noticed the vehicles on the tracks and initiated emergency braking, but this did not prevent the accident in time. The train, which was approaching at reduced speed due to construction work, could no longer avert the accident. Fortunately, the 62-year-old driver of the affected car only suffered minor injuries and was taken to hospital. A passenger on the train also did not escape unscathed and was slightly injured; The train driver himself suffered a shock after he noticed the dangerous situation. The railway line between Bremen and Bremerhaven remained closed until Monday evening in order not to endanger the emergency services during their work.

Safety at level crossings: A pressing issue

This incident highlights the dangers posed by so-called level crossings between road and rail. There are over 16,000 level crossings in Germany, many of them without barriers or lights. According to that Federal Ministry of Transport Safety at these crossings depends heavily on visibility, speed and behavior of road users. Rail vehicles have the right of way, and the long braking distances make misjudgments particularly risky.

The safety systems at level crossings vary. While technical safeguards such as traffic lights and half or full barriers significantly reduce the risk of accidents, unsecured crossings are often only marked with a St. Andrew's cross, which requires drivers to be more attentive. Be it due to disregarding barrier signals or distraction – many accidents are due to driver misconduct. Over 70% of Deutsche Bahn's level crossings are now technically secured, which has led to a decline in the number of accidents in recent years.

Measures to improve security

In order to increase safety at level crossings, various measures are necessary. Structural changes, such as conversion to overpasses or underpasses and the introduction of new technologies, could further minimize the risk. DB AG invests around 170 million euros annually in the safety of its level crossings, supported by additional funds from the federal government and road construction authorities. Maintenance and regular inspection of existing systems are also crucial to ensure reliable operation.

In view of the current incident in Osterholz-Scharmbeck, it is to be hoped that such tragic accidents can be avoided and that safety at level crossings will be addressed even more intensively. Above all, education and preventative measures are essential to raise awareness of the dangers and prevent future accidents.