A recent train accident near Herentals has raised concerns about railway crossing safety in Belgium. On 2025-08-18 17:17:00, a passenger train collided with a car that failed to stop at a red light on the Lichtaartseweg crossing, just a few hundred meters from the station. The incident has disrupted local train services and caused significant traffic delays.
- Person braked late at red crossing
- Train made emergency stop but collided
- Driver exited vehicle unharmed and shaken
- Train continued to Herentals after inspection
- Rail traffic halted two hours post-accident
- Police advised detours for stuck drivers
The driver of the car braked too late, according to Infrabel’s Thomas Baeken, and the vehicle came to rest partially on the tracks. Despite the train’s emergency braking, a collision occurred, fortunately without serious injuries. How could such accidents be prevented in the future, and what lessons can Belgian commuters learn from this event?
With train services halted for two hours and road crossings closed, the impact on daily commuters was notable. Let’s explore the key details and implications of this accident.
What does this incident reveal about crossing safety and emergency response? It highlights the need for vigilance and quick action at railway intersections. Key takeaways include:
- Drivers must heed crossing signals to avoid dangerous collisions.
- Trains can sometimes continue safely after technical checks, reducing passenger inconvenience.
- Emergency services and police coordinate to manage traffic and assist stranded drivers effectively.
- Speed limits near stations can lessen collision impact severity.
Moving forward, Belgian authorities and commuters alike should prioritise safety measures at crossings. Could improved signalling or public campaigns reduce risks? Staying alert and respecting traffic rules is essential to keep everyone safe on the rails and roads.
