Rail signs call after runner's death at crossing

A coroner has called for better signs at level crossings after a runner listening to music died when he was hit by a train.

Sam Dudley died while jogging in Formby, Merseyside on 24 August.

The klaxon siren and red light were in operation at Hoggs Hill Level Crossing and CCTV footage showed he appeared shocked at the sight of the train and tried to jump backwards.

Investigators found the 29-year-old had been listening to music on his mobile phone, which displayed a warning that the sound was too loud.

Anita Bhardwaj, senior coroner for Sefton, said the crossing was "safe, compliant and operating as designed", adding that it was "more likely than not that Sam did not hear the klaxon".

Following an inquest into his death, she concluded: "In my opinion, there is a risk that future deaths could occur unless action is taken."

The coroner added that "increasingly, more people wear earphones and are therefore less aware of their surroundings".

She said visual signs on the approach to level crossings should be improved to prevent further accidents.

"Visual cues generally attract initial attention more effectively and support rapid comprehension, while sound cues tend to create a stronger emotional connection."

Network Rail, as the operator, is obliged to respond to her report by 31 March with details and a timetable of plans for action.