Investigation links fatal Kent crossing collision to signals and signage

Technology · First reported 9 Nov, 14:57 · Updated 15:31

Image: Wikimedia Commons · NASA Johnson Space Center · Public domain

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch said green lights, crossing layout and gaps in guidance almost certainly led delivery driver Brandon Hatcher to enter Bax crossing while its exit gate was still closed. It recommended changes to crossing design and guidance; South Eastern Railway said it had already changed the site layout and issued guidance for professional drivers.

The RAIB said green lights almost certainly led Brandon Hatcher to believe it was safe to enter Bax crossing, where his van was struck by a train and he died.
Investigators cited signage, missing road markings and inadequate training or guidance as factors that did not prepare the driver to use the crossing safely.
The RAIB made four recommendations, including reviews of crossing design and road-user guidance; South Eastern Railway said it had changed the site layout and published a toolkit for professional drivers.

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Key facts

Location: Bax user-worked crossing near Teynham, Kent.
Collision: 13 July 2025, at about 12:42pm; the train was travelling at about 71mph.
Train route: Ramsgate to London Victoria.
RAIB recommendations: Four recommendations, including reviews of crossing design and user guidance.
Injuries: Brandon Hatcher was fatally injured; no one else was injured.