Report on collision between a train and a tractor at an unsecured level crossing on the Gjøvik Line on 25 August 2025

The accident occurred when the tractor entered the level crossing without stopping for the approaching train. The train driver observed the tractor shortly before the collision, sounded the horn and then applied the emergency brakes, but the collision could not be avoided. The tractor was struck on its left side, and the driver was thrown from the cab. The train was not carrying passengers and was travelling at approximately 65 km/h at the time of impact.

The investigation found no technical faults with the tractor, the train, or the infrastructure that are believed to have contributed to the accident. Visibility conditions at the site were good and met applicable requirements, and the level crossing was properly designed for this type of vehicle.

The tractor driver was familiar with the location. While approaching the crossing, the tractor was driving into low-angle sunlight. However, during the final 4 to 5 metres before the crossing, the vehicle entered a shaded area. It cannot be ruled out that the transition from sunlight to shade, during which the eyes require some time to adjust, may have played a role. This underscores the importance of stopping and taking sufficient time to actively look for trains in both directions before crossing a railway line. NSIA has not been able establish why the tractor did not stop at the unsecured level crossing as the train approached.

This is the eighth accident at an unsecured level crossing investigated by NSIA since 2006, seven of which resulted in the death of the road user. NSIA has identified several similarities among these accidents:

• The accidents occurred at unsecured level crossings on private roads with little traffic. Signage at the crossings was correct. In seven of the eight accidents, the deceased road users were familiar with the location.

• The level crossing was appropriately designed for the vehicle involved, and visibility was adequate. The accidents occurred during daylight hours, without rain, fog, or other conditions that could impair visibility. However, it cannot be ruled out that sunlight may have been a contributing factor in some cases.

• The road users crossed the level crossings at a low and steady speed, showing no signs of stopping.

• No technical findings related to the vehicles, trains, or infrastructure have been identified that help explain the cause of the accidents.

The deceased road users were alone in their vehicles, and available witnesses have generally been unable to provide information as to why the road users failed to stop for the approaching train. Consequently, NSIA does not know where the road users' attention was focused during the crucial final seconds before these accidents. Attention is critical and essential when crossing level crossings, especially unsecured crossings where the road user bears full responsibility for ensuring that it is safe to cross.

Many users of unsecured level crossings favour some form of technical protection, while Bane NOR SF primarily advocates closing such crossings. Increased travel distances, loss of agricultural land, and other disadvantages must be weighed against safety considerations. The large number of unsecured level crossings, many of which have very limited traffic, combined with high investment costs, makes it unrealistic to envisage technical protection being installed at all of them.

No safety recommendations are being issued as a result of this accident. However, when considered together with previous accidents at unsecured level crossings, several key lessons for users of such crossings have been identified:

• Always stop before the level crossing, even when visibility is good. Reduce speed well in advance, come to a complete stop, look carefully in both directions several times, and actively listen for approaching trains before crossing.

• Do not become complacent through routine. Even if you cross the same level crossing frequently, you should consciously assess the situation every time: stop, look, and listen as carefully as if it were your first visit.

• Do not let seemingly favourable conditions reduce your attention. Low speed, light traffic, and good visibility do not automatically mean it is safe to cross. Trains approach quickly and cannot stop for you. Take no chances and allow yourself sufficient time before crossing.

The unsecured level crossing at Gamme. Photo: NSIA

Published 18.08.2026