Learner Driver Banned After Crashing Through Level Crossing Barrier
23 August 2017, 12:32 | Updated: 23 August 2017, 12:35
A leaner driver has been banned from driving after she crashed through the barrier of a level crossing.
Adenike Akingbogun, 44, of Monarch Drive in Sittingbourne, had her licence removed before she’d even passed her test following the shocking incident in Purfleet, Essex.
CCTV shows Akingbogun drive the car on to the crossing despite the warning lights flashing.
As the barrier closes behind her, she stops, panics, and reverses through the barrier and into another vehicle - causing £1,100 worth of damages.
The 44-year-old was convicted of driving a motor vehicle dangerously at Basildon Magistrates’ Court on 10 August.
She held a provisional licence and was accompanied by a full licence holder when the incident occurred on Christmas Eve last year.
However, Akingbogun was not displaying the “L” plates legally required for learner drivers.
She was disqualified for 12 months and ordered to pay £420 in fines, costs of £85 and victim services of £42.
PC Rob Whyte said "This incident sends a clear message to drivers that they must comply with the safety equipment at railway level crossings or they risk endangering their lives, the lives of other road users and passengers on board trains.
"There were substantial delays caused to rail services because of this incident, and it was extremely lucky that nobody was injured.
"Akingbogun was not a full licence holder and should have been clearly displaying L plates on her car when driving it on the public highway.
“It is clear to me that her inexperience on the road contributed to this incident."
