Man narrowly escaped death after running in front of express train

Footage of a man pushing through safety gates at a level crossing and being hit by a train in Brisbane, Australia has been released as a graphic reminder of the dangers.

The 20-year-old man waited for one train at Cannon Hill on August 10, and was still looking after it when a train in the other direction clipped his leg. He was taken to hospital and escaped serious injury - but was given a $2200 fine for his actions after appearing in court last week.

Transport Minister Scott Emerson said the incident could have easily turned into a tragedy. "The incident shows how easy it is for a pedestrian to miss the danger of a second oncoming train and taking an unthinkable risk which could have been fatal," Mr Emerson said.

YouTube link.

"The pedestrian gates at Cannon Hill were closed at the time of the incident - all it takes to stay safe at railway crossings is to pay attention to the signs and signals."