Metrorail
ALMOST KILLED AT THE RAILWAY CROSSING

At approximately 20:00 on Sunday 12 May 2013, my son and I were on our way home. There was a vehicle ahead of us which crossed the level crossing, we were a few metres behind it about to cross as well. Half-way across the tracks, the booms were being lowered. I didn't see any visual or audible warning to caution us not to cross. As the booms were lowering, I stopped my vehicle on the track, hoping that the boomsman would allow me to exit quickly to the other side - it did not appear so. I must've been stationary for 3 minutes between 2 lowered booms not knowing what to do, there was no assistance from anyone. I realised that our lives were in danger and put the vehicle in reverse quickly, realising that damage may be caused to my car. We were safely behind the boom, when seconds later, the train came speeding past us. I realised that had I not reacted quickly, we would've been dragged along and killed. There were witnesses who witnessed this horrific incident, we're still in shock. This was a traumatic event for which we're receiving counselling. I'm convinced that there was no warning, if Metrorail disagrees, I demand to see evidence to the contrary.

Company: Metrorail
Country: South Africa
City: Kenilworth

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