At the beginning of June, two major safety topics are drawing attention across Europe, Luxembourg, and at the CFL. One is the International Level Crossing Awareness Day (ILCAD), which will take place again on June 5, 2025, reminding the public of the importance of proper behavior at level crossings. This is a crucial issue, as violations of the rules still lead to fatal accidents or major disruptions in train traffic.
In 2025, the issue of unauthorized track crossings is also a central focus of awareness efforts during the TRESPAD (Trespassing Awareness Day) on June 4. During the past year, CFL staff observed nearly 800 instances of customers crossing the tracks or walking along them without authorization—more than twice a day on average.
These 800 situations could have ended fatally. More than half of the incidents occurred in stations, in front of other passengers, including many children and teenagers. Following the motto “the shortest path is a straight line,” many people choose to avoid the slightly longer route through the underpass and instead decide themselves for the deadly shortcut across the tracks to reach the opposite platform.
A decision with serious consequences: Nearly two-thirds (61%) of all fatal railway accidents in Europe are caused by unauthorized persons being on or near the tracks. In such cases, it’s not only a tragedy for the families of the victims, but also—especially in stations—a traumatic experience for CFL staff and other passengers.
2024 the forbidden presence of people along the tracks has lead to around 16.000 minutes of delay as well as 275 train cancellations.
What are the CFL doing?
The CFL raise awareness—year after year. This year again, with a message that is as simple as it is clear: “Don’t cross the tracks. Use the underpass. Your life depends on it.”
Proper Behavior at Level Crossings: Awareness Continues in 2025
Key facts at a glance:
2025 marks the 17th edition of the international awareness day for safe behavior at level crossings.
As of the end of 2024, Luxembourg still had 105 level crossings.
The CFL remove one to two level crossings each year.
Between 2019 and 2024, four fatal accidents occurred at level crossings.
To ensure your safety at level crossings, here are the key rules:
Stop as soon as the red lights flash and/or the acoustic warning signal sounds near the crossing.
In case of traffic congestion, wait in front of the open barriers until you can cross the tracks at the level crossing completely and without interruption. This ensures your vehicle doesn’t get stuck on the tracks on the level crossing.
If you do get stuck on the tracks, break through the barriers with your vehicle. They are designed with breakaway points to allow you to exit the danger zone.
If you see a vehicle stuck on the tracks, call emergency number 112 and provide the crossing number, which is displayed next to each level crossing.
Reminder: A train may need up to 1,200 meters to come to a complete stop. Even if the train driver sees your vehicle on the tracks, an emergency brake will rarely prevent a collision.
