Level crossings—those seemingly ordinary intersections where roads and railways meet—can become the sites of heartbreaking loss. For Daniel and Dianne Dejanovic, the dangers posed by these crossings are all too real. In 2014, they lost their 20-year-old daughter, Alana, in a devastating level crossing accident. This tragedy became the driving force behind their mission to improve safety and prevent similar incidents from happening to others.
Turning Tragedy into Advocacy: Alana’s Legacy
Alana’s untimely death served as the catalyst for her parents’ unwavering commitment to change. Determined to honor her memory, Daniel and Dianne founded the Alana Dejanovic Foundation. Through this effort, they transformed their grief into a powerful movement for safer level crossings, ensuring that Alana’s legacy lives on in their fight to save lives.
The Human Impact of Level Crossing Accidents
Level crossing accidents, while representing a small fraction of overall road incidents, often result in devastating consequences. The Dejanovic family’s tragedy highlights the profound impact such accidents can have:
- Emotional trauma: Losing a loved one suddenly and tragically leaves a lasting emotional toll on families and communities.
- Lifelong disabilities: Survivors may endure permanent physical or cognitive challenges, requiring ongoing care and support.
- Economic burden: The financial costs, including medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage, can be overwhelming.
Identifying the Risks at Level Crossings
Understanding the factors that contribute to level crossing accidents is essential for developing effective safety measures. Key risks include:
Driver Behavior and Complacency
Human error is a major contributor to accidents at level crossings. Common risky behaviors include:
- Ignoring warning signals: Drivers may disregard flashing lights and bells due to distraction or impatience.
- Attempting to beat the train: Misjudging a train’s speed and distance can lead to dangerous decisions.
- Driving under the influence: Impairment significantly increases the likelihood of accidents.
Environmental Challenges
External conditions often amplify the dangers at level crossings:
- Adverse weather: Fog, rain, and snow reduce visibility, making it harder to detect approaching trains.
- Night driving: Darkness limits visibility, increasing reliance on warning signals.
- Sun glare: Bright sunlight can momentarily blind drivers, obscuring their view of the crossing.
Infrastructure Shortcomings
Design and infrastructure limitations can also elevate risks:
- Passive crossings: Crossings without active warning systems depend solely on driver awareness.
- Complex layouts: Crossings near busy intersections or with multiple tracks can confuse drivers and increase collision risks.
- Inadequate signage: Poor or unclear signage can lead to misjudgment and unsafe decisions.
Daniel Dejanovic’s Fight for Safer Crossings
Since establishing the Alana Dejanovic Foundation, Daniel has been a relentless advocate for change, working with various stakeholders to improve safety at level crossings.
Collaborating for Change
Daniel’s advocacy has resulted in partnerships with key organizations and policymakers:
- Working with road authorities: Advocating for upgrades such as boom gates and clearer signage at high-risk crossings.
- Collaboration with rail operators: Promoting enhanced safety protocols and improved driver training programs.
- Engaging policymakers: Lobbying for legislative reforms to prioritize level crossing safety.
Public Awareness and Education
Recognizing the power of education, Daniel has launched impactful campaigns to raise public awareness:
- Community outreach: Hosting events and workshops to educate the public on safe practices near crossings.
- Educational materials: Creating resources for schools and drivers to highlight the dangers and consequences of risky behavior.
- Media engagement: Sharing his story through various platforms to inspire action and ensure Alana’s memory drives meaningful change.
A Vision for Safer Crossings
Daniel Dejanovic’s dedication to level crossing safety is a testament to his enduring love for his daughter and his determination to prevent other families from experiencing similar heartbreak. While the pain of losing Alana will always be with him, his efforts offer hope for a safer future. By continuing to push for collaboration, education, and reform, Daniel strives to transform level crossings into safer spaces for all. His mission is clear: to honor Alana’s memory by ensuring no more lives are lost at these critical intersections.