The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has discontinued an investigation into a fatal level crossing collision after finding the driver of the car involved was walking a dog beside the vehicle.
A passenger train travelling between Brisbane and Sydney, XPT NT32, collided with a white Holden Commodore at the Andrew Street level crossing at Kyogle, in northern NSW, just after 8am on June 14, 2017.
The driver of the car suffered fatal injuries. No injuries to those on the train were reported, and the train sustained minor damage.
The ATSB this week said its preliminary evidence collection revealed the passive level crossing approach signage was to standard, and sighting distances from both sides of the crossing were unobstructed, providing ample time for safe crossing.
It found there was no evidence the crossing was poorly maintained, and there were no mechanical issues identified with the train, nor issues with its driver.
Its preliminary investigation did find, however, the driver of the car was walking their pet dog beside the vehicle over the crossing.
“Based on this information, it is likely the driver of the car did not see the train approaching and did not abide by the passive level crossing warning signs,” the Bureau said in a statement required by the Transport Safety Investigation Act 2003.
The Act allows the Bureau to close an investigation at its discretion, but commands that it explain why.
“The ATSB considered it was very unlikely that further investigation would identify any systemic safety issues,” the Bureau said. “Consequently, the ATSB has discontinued this investigation.”