Letter: Tempted by flashing lights

From Mr Adrian Turner

Sir: I am puzzled as to why the railways have introduced flashing lights at level crossings to warn motorists that a train is approaching. Surely it makes sense to have ordinary traffic lights, as seen in every town and village in the country, which everybody understands. If the lights show red, it means stop. If they are green, it is safe to proceed. There is no ambiguity.

Can somebody explain the thinking behind the three flashing lights, which appear to tempt motorists to cross before the barriers come down?

Yours faithfully,

Adrian Turner

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