Ratingen (dpa / lnw) - A 43-year-old driver was hit by a freight train at an unrestricted level crossing in Ratingen near Düsseldorf and was seriously injured. According to witnesses, the woman from Erkrath drove her car onto the tracks despite the red flashing warning light that warned of the approaching train, the police in Mettmann reported on Friday.
The 28-year-old engine driver from Oberhausen had initiated an emergency stop with the train, but was no longer able to prevent the collision. The woman's limousine was hit by the train and, according to the fire department, was carried away around 50 meters on Thursday evening. The wreck lay on its side.
A 42-year-old and a 22-year-old driver who had been waiting with their cars on the opposite side of the level crossing gave the woman first aid until the rescue workers arrived.
