The effects of the preventive campaign “cautious drivers watch for level crossings “ on road traffic safety in the Republic of Srpska

Abstract

Railway level crossings represent critical points in the road traffic safety system, where serious incidents with severe consequences occur despite the presence of prescribed signaling. From 2021 to 2025, the Republic of Serbian implemented a multi-sector preventive initiative entitled ”Cautious Drivers Watch for Level Crossings”, aimed at raising awareness among road users and reducing the number of extraordinary events at railway crossings. This paper analyzes the effects of the campaign through statistical data on the number of fatalities and injuries, as well as through the results of monitoring driver and pedestrian behaviour at crossings with different levels of protection. Special emphasis is placed on the role of local communities and cooperation with institutions in identifying high-risk locations, eliminating unsafe railway crossings, and educating the public. The presented results highlight the importance of continuous communication, systemic cooperation, and consistent enforcement as prerequisites for improving safety at railway level crossings.