Motorists who enter the yellow "no stopping" box at Tile Shed and Boldon crossings before the exit is clear could find themselves trapped on the tracks.

There have also been reports of drivers trying to jump the lights.
Bosses and train drivers for Network Rail say "it isn't worth taking the risk", and someone could end up dead.

Network Rail has already invested £200,000 installing signs on the approach to the crossings, warning drivers to keep crossings clear when traffic is queuing.

And yesterday safety teams from the railway company visited the two sites to launch the "Don't Run the Risk" campaign.

Warrick Dent, area general manager for Network Rail, said: "We all know the frustration of sitting in a queue of traffic and can appreciate the urge to push forward.

"My message is simple – are those few extra yards really worth risking your life for?

"If motorists ignore the yellow boxes and queue across the level crossing and the barriers come down, they will have nowhere to go."

The awareness day has been organised by road and rail sector organisations and Government agencies across Europe, and will see safety events take place across 23 countries.

Network Rail train driver Dave Hardy said: "I would urge all motorists to make sure they use crossings correctly, it simply isn't worth the risk.

"As a train driver, you can't swerve to avoid anyone trying to beat the barrier. All we can do is put on the emergency brake and hope that everyone will be OK, but it isn't always the case."

In 2008, 15 people died at level crossings in the UK.
Transport police have warned drivers caught jumping the lights or
barriers will be arrested.

Stephen Hepburn MP for Jarrow, also backed the campaign.
He said: "Taking a chance at a level crossing can put your life – and your family's life – at risk.

"I urge all motorists to think of the potential consequences if they misuse level crossings."