What should you do at a railroad crossing with flashing lights?

• A. Accelerate to clear the crossing quickly.
• B. Stop if required by signals; proceed only when the crossing is clear and safe.
• C. Ignore flashing lights if no gates are present.
• D. Slow down but do not stop.

Answer: (B)

Flashing railroad crossing signals are a clear warning that a train is near. The safest, correct action is to stop when the signals require and only proceed across once the crossing is completely clear and safe. Trains can be faster and closer than they appear, and you may not be able to judge distance or speed accurately. Wait for the lights to stop flashing, gates to rise (if present), and for no train to be approaching from either direction before you move. This approach avoids trying to beat the train, which is dangerous and illegal.