Name a common cause of accidents at level crossings.

Distracted driving or failure to heed warning signals is a significant cause of accidents at level crossings. When drivers are distracted, whether due to mobile phone use, impatience, or other distractions, they may fail to notice active warning signals, such as flashing lights or lowering gates. This can lead to a tragic collision with a train, as vehicles often misjudge the speed of approaching trains or incorrectly assess the safety of crossing.

In contrast, while elderly pedestrians crossing slowly, heavy rain obstructing visibility, and mechanical failure of the train are factors that can contribute to accidents, they are less common in the context of level crossings specifically. Distracted driving encompasses a broader range of behaviors that are frequently observed in accident reports, making it a more pressing concern in the context of ensuring safety at these critical intersections.