WATCH: Shocking video shows GO Train crashing into car in North York

Metrolinx shared shocking new security footage of an oncoming GO Train crashing into an SUV after the driver illegally crept into a level crossing in North York.

Metrolinx senior advisor Andrea Wiseman featured the video on Metrolinx News, which was published to “raise awareness about safety at level crossings.”

Wiseman says the incident happened in mid-May near the Carl Hall Road rail crossing in North York.

The startling footage shows the driver of an SUV slowly creeping onto the hub — a section of road that crosses a train track — only to be hit by a GO Train.

The female driver survived the collision and didn’t suffer any severe injuries but was charged in the incident.

“Most of these incidents, like the one in the video, are preventable,” said Martin Gallagher, chief safety officer at Metrolinx.

“Collisions at level crossings are caused by pedestrians, cyclists and drivers who deliberately take risks or make bad decisions by mistake, out of habit or because they’re distracted. Everyone needs to be alert at level crossings and remember that trains move quickly and can appear at any time.”

100 Canadians seriously injured, killed every year at level crossings

With pandemic restrictions being lifted and life returning to normal, Metrolinx spokesperson Anne Marie Aikins says more and more people will resume the routine of taking transit, which means safety will be a priority.

“We all kind of forget the rules. People haven’t been on transit in ages due to the pandemic,” Aikins said. “People got used to very little traffic because of COVID-19, so we’re releasing a video like this as a reminder that these rules are in place.”

Metrolinx cites data from Operation Lifesaver, noting that approximately 100 Canadians are seriously injured or killed yearly at level crossings.

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“It’s [the train] coming faster than you think. They travel fast, and you don’t always hear it when it’s coming.”

Aikins says it’s challenging to be in this kind of situation as people often tend to panic. That’s why it’s best to exercise extreme caution near rail crossings.

“It’s just going to get busier, there are more trains now, and there will be more in the future,” Aikins added.

“The highest consequence is taking a risk like this. Is it really worth getting somewhere two or three minutes faster? Is that worth your life?”

Metrolinx urges drivers and motorists to be extra cautious and vigilant when approaching these crossings. A pivotal tip is to concentrate on what you are doing and not be distracted by other passengers or your cell phone.

“I really don’t have an explanation for how this driver walked away,” Aikins said. “I can’t imagine what it’s like for the crew to deal with these situations.”