The give-way protection installed at the crossing was inconsistent with the available sighting distances on both approaches to the crossing. Sighting was affected by vegetation, embankments formed by a rail cutting and the curved road approaches.
The ATSB is satisfied that the interim action taken by V/Line will reduce the risk associated with this safety issue, pending further assessment and infrastructure works.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau recommends that V/Line reviews the risks at the B. McCann level crossing associated with the inconsistency between the level of crossing protection provided and the sighting available, and takes appropriate action.
V/Line has advised the Victorian Railway Crossing Safety Steering committee that B. McCann Road is a high priority location for upgrade to active protection.
V/Line has introduced interim train speed reductions that will be in place from 1 January 2015 through to 31 March 2015.
