Terrifying moment driver narrowly escapes death after huge train barrier mistake

Jaw-dropping CCTV footage of the incident was captured at a level crossing in Poland. (Image: Malopolska Police)

A delivery driver had an incredibly lucky escape after his van was torn apart by a passenger train in a shocking crash caught on CCTV. The collision, which happened just before 7 am last Friday, has prompted renewed safety warnings from police.

The incident took place at a guarded level crossing in Wola Filipowska, a village just outside Krakow. Footage shows an Opel delivery van trying to cross the tracks as the warning barriers began to lower. The driver, apparently attempting to beat the train, failed to clear the crossing in time and became trapped between the gates.

The driver failed to clear the crossing in time and became trapped between the gates (Image: Malopolska Police)

In the tense seconds that followed, the van can be seen edging forward in a desperate attempt to escape. But with little room to move and the barriers firmly in place, the driver had only moments before disaster struck.

Seconds later, a Swinoujscie-to-Krakow passenger train raced into view and slammed into the rear of the van at full speed.

The impact ripped away the back of the vehicle, sending debris flying across the crossing and scattering within the enclosed area. Against all odds, the driver climbed out of the wreckage unhurt and was able to walk away.

Malopolska Police confirmed that no passengers or crew on the train were injured. “A very dangerous incident occurred at a guarded railway crossing in Wola Filipowska,” a police spokesperson said.

The driver was thankfully not injured (Image: Malopolska Police)

“Despite the seemingly serious road accident, the driver of the Opel delivery van was uninjured. Passengers and crew on the Swinoujscie-Krakow train also reported no health complaints.”

The cause of the crash is now under investigation under the supervision of the prosecutor’s office. Police say the incident is a stark reminder of the risks of ignoring safety rules at railway crossings.

In releasing the dramatic footage, officers issued a clear warning: “Failure to follow these rules can result in a tragic accident. A train can appear at any moment — this is no place to take risks.”

The remains of the van were later removed from the tracks, allowing rail services to resume. Authorities hope the shocking video will discourage drivers from gambling with their safety at crossings.