Fatal accident at Lady Howard footpath crossing

At around 14:51 hrs on 21 April 2022, a pedestrian was struck and fatally injured by a train while they were crossing the railway at Lady Howard footpath crossing, between Epsom and Ashtead in Surrey. The train involved was travelling at 62 mph (100 km/h) at the time of the accident. Another train had passed over the crossing in the opposite direction immediately before the accident occurred.

Lady Howard crossing provides access to Ashtead common. The crossing is protected by gates and is provided with signage which instructs users how to cross. Pedestrian users are directed to stop, look and listen for trains before crossing the railway.

Our investigation will determine the sequence of events that led to the accident and will include consideration of:

• the factors which may have affected the decisions and actions of the pedestrian
• any previous incidents at Lady Howard footpath crossing and how these may be relevant to this accident
• the management of risk at this crossing and Network Rail’s wider strategy for assessing and mitigating risks at footpath crossings
• any relevant underlying factors.

Our investigation is independent of any investigation by the railway industry, the British Transport Police or by the industry’s regulator, the Office of Rail and Road.

We will publish our findings, including any recommendations to improve safety, at the conclusion of our investigation. This report will be available on our website.

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