Kathleen Yettman, 44, from Ohio died after suffering serious injuries in the accident on a level crossing in mid Wales.

Powys coroner John Hollis said at Newtown magistrates court that she had died after sustaining a fractured skull following the crash at Llanbrynmair, near Machynlleth.

The inquest was adjourned and a full hearing is expected to take place early next year.

An investigation found that warning lights at the crossing were working at the time of the collision.

But Railtrack is reviewing all safety aspects at the crossing.

In the immediate aftermath of the collision, warning lights and track-side telephones were tested.

But local residents say the warning lights are too small and the crossing gates are regularly left open.

Mrs Yettman died when the hired Ford Mondeo she was travelling in with her husband, Christopher, was hit by a Central Trains passenger service on 29 October.

Warning lights 'difficult to see'

Mr Yettman sustained rib injuries in the accident and was taken Bronglais Hospital in Aberystwyth. Three of the 70 passengers on the service from Lincoln to Aberystwyth received minor injuries.

Farmer Aurydd Jones claimed that warning lights at the crossing were very small and sometimes difficult to see, particularly when the sun was shining.

"I and others have complained on more than one occasion about the crossing."