Truck drivers who get stuck on a level crossing should drive through the barriers rather than stop, even if it damages the equipment, ProRail and the transport industry group TLN said on Friday.

The warning follows a collision between an intercity train and a lorry on Thursday at a level crossing in Meteren, near Geldermalsen. Footage of the crash shows a truck loaded with pears trying to cross the tracks but failing to either go forward or back.

The train crashed into the rear of the truck, leaving the lorry badly damaged and five people injured. It is unclear why the driver was manoeuvring on the tracks or what condition the injured people are in.

 

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ProRail said it had made the footage public deliberately to prevent similar accidents. “We want to warn drivers of large vehicles in particular to stay alert,” a spokesman said. “If you do get stuck, drive through the barriers — they are designed to break.”

Train services between Geldermalsen and Den Bosch remain suspended while repairs are carried out. The disruption is expected to last at least until Saturday, and possibly longer.