The lasting cost of a near miss. A message from Dr Maria Mazaheri.

One moment at a level crossing can lead to a lifetime of trauma for train drivers. Flashbacks, nightmares and anxiety, are some of the lasting effects of what some might dismiss as “just a near miss.”

You might think, “Nothing happened, I got through, I can take a deep breath and keep driving.”

But for our drivers, that moment can replay over and over again, leaving scars that never fully heal.

Dr. Maria Mazaheri, Aurizon’s Chief Medical Officer, has seen firsthand the impact these incidents have on mental health. She shares an important reminder for all road users:

“You might take a deep breath and keep driving, but for our drivers, the trauma is real. They can be significantly affected and may never return to their normal life. One careless decision can change someone’s life forever. Respect the sign. Lives are on the line.”

As we approach the festive holiday season, the roads become busier, and distractions increase. It’s a time for celebration, but also a time to take extra care. You might think a quick decision to beat the train is harmless, but for our drivers, it can change their lives forever, leaving emotional scars and memories that never fade.

One moment can change everything. Please slow down, stay alert, and make safety your priority, not just for yourself, but for those who work tirelessly to keep our rail network moving.

You can watch the video with these important safety messages from Dr Maria here. You can also get a range of resources of level crossing safety to share in your community and in schools here.

Aurizon is Australia’s largest rail freight business, operating in every mainland state and the Northern Territory, with more than 80% of our 6,000-strong workforce living and working in regional communities across the nation.