Investigation calls for better rail crossing signage after collision avoided near Hoveton
Vehicles nearly collided with a train because drivers did not notify signaller
An investigation's found a train narrowly avoided hitting two cars near Hoveton last year after drivers failed to call the signaller to check it was clear.
The vehicles had arrived at Coltishall Lane after trying to avoid an accident elsewhere but didn't call the signaller before crossing.
According to a Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) report, this may have been because they were unfamiliar with the crossing.
The report says it may also have been because signs at the crossing were "ineffective in prompting users on how to cross safely", and because the level crossing gates had already been opened.
The report recommended that signage should be upgraded at user-operated crossings.
Andrew Hall, chief inspector of rail accidents, said: "This very near miss involved two road vehicles and took place at a user-worked level crossing on a public road."
"Level crossings are one of the biggest sources of risk on the UK's railways."
"RAIB has investigated many accidents and incidents over the last 16 years and noted considerable improvement in the way risk at many types of level crossing is managed.
"However, we feel at present the greatest scope for safety improvement exists at user-worked crossings, whether on private or public roads.
"The significant number of such crossings on public roads is of concern because most motorists are unlikely to be familiar with the concept of a level crossing which they must operate themselves."