Hit-and-run damages Hanau level crossing lights before Christmas

A reckless driver fled after smashing the crossing’s safety lights—now authorities race to restore them. Thousands in costs loom as trains keep rolling.

, and Administrator

2026 January 5 . 9:12 AM

1 min read

In this image two trains are on the rail track. Front side of image there is a fence. There are few... — In this image two trains are on the rail track. Front side of image there is a fence. There are few poles on the land. A pole is having signal light attached to it. Right side of image there is a car on the road. Background there are few buildings. Top of image there is sky.

Hit-and-run damages Hanau level crossing lights before Christmas

A level crossing on Hanauer Landstraße in Großauheim was damaged just before Christmas. The incident disrupted the flashing light system, though the crossing itself remains fully operational. Authorities are now investigating the cause.

The damage occurred in late December, leaving the barrier’s warning lights out of order. Despite this, trains and road traffic have continued to pass through without interruption.

Police have classified the case as a hit-and-run. Early findings point to a larger vehicle being responsible for the collision. The Hanau Port authority, which oversees the crossing, has scheduled repairs for early January. Estimated costs for the restoration work are expected to reach the high four-digit range. No specific company or institution has been named as responsible for maintaining the barrier system at this location.

Repairs will begin in January, with expenses likely running into thousands of euros. The crossing remains safe for use, but the flashing lights will stay non-functional until the work is completed. Police continue to search for the vehicle involved in the incident.