Delivery Driver Avoids Jail After Van Ploughs Into Passing Train

A delivery driver who steered his van into the path of an approaching train at a Cumbrian level crossing has been handed a suspended prison sentence after a British Transport Police investigation.

William Backhouse, 30, of Ashford Way in Carlisle, was sentenced at Ipswich Magistrates’ Court on 26 February. He received an eight-month prison term suspended for 12 months, was disqualified from driving for a year and ordered to pay £1,500 in compensation. The court previously heard that Backhouse had pleaded guilty on 27 January to Driving a Motor Vehicle Dangerously and Endangering the Safety of a Person Conveyed by Railway.

The incident occurred on 13 September 2025 while Backhouse was delivering parcels in Braystones, Cumbria. Before the collision, he had crossed the railway at a gated level crossing and manually lifted the barrier without first telephoning the signaller using the trackside phone, as required under safety procedures.

After completing his delivery, Backhouse returned to the crossing to traverse the line again. CCTV footage played in court showed him edging his van forward onto the tracks as a train was passing, resulting in the train striking the front of the vehicle. The impact tore off the van’s front corner and scattered debris along the railway. The train suffered only superficial damage and, fortunately, neither Backhouse nor any passengers on board were injured.

BTP Police Constable Stewart Simpson said:

"Backhouse's careless actions and wanton disregard for safety put his own life and the lives of everyone on the train at risk. The safety procedures are there for a reason, and we will continue to take action against those who misuse level crossings. There is never an excuse for ignoring the safety protocols in place at a level crossing, and I would urge anyone who witnesses someone failing to adhere to the proper procedures to urgently contact us by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40 so that we can safeguard commuters and take action against negligent drivers."

Clare Waller, Network Rail route director for the North West, added:

"Safety on the railway is our highest priority and this kind of reckless behaviour is not only dangerous but can cause significant disruption to passengers. This particular incident has cost the taxpayer thousands of pounds and everyone involved was lucky to escape injury. We will continue to work with our partners to manage level crossings as safely as possible."

Image: British Transport Police