33,000 drivers caught violating Dutch railway crossings in two years

Between February 2024 and early 2026, 33,000 drivers committed traffic violations at railway crossings in the Netherlands, according to ProRail, the country’s railway infrastructure manager.

ProRail described the number of violations as “a shocking figure,” though it noted that some locations saw an immediate decrease in offenses after camera installation.

The violations were recorded during a pilot program using automated cameras. The cameras, installed at 30 high-risk crossings, capture vehicles that cross while the red warning lights are flashing and the barriers are down.

At other crossings, the number of fines remained high initially but dropped by approximately 60 percent over time. A ProRail spokesperson said this indicates a “slow learning curve,” with drivers gradually adjusting to the new system.

However, some locations have shown no reduction in violations. ProRail said it is investigating the reasons, examining factors such as traffic density and driver risk assessment. The organization aims to determine not only the effectiveness of the cameras but also how other variables influence behavior at crossings.

ProRail also reported an annual uptick in fines around July, potentially linked to increased tourist and recreational traffic, although the company stressed this is an assumption that requires further research.