When approaching a railroad crossing with guard rails lowered and lights flashing, you should

• A. Proceed slowly if no train is nearby
• B. Honk to warn the train and pass
• C. You have to stop and wait, no matter what
• D. Look both ways and proceed carefully

Answer: (C)

When you see guard rails down and lights flashing at a railroad crossing, the vehicle must stop and wait. Signals like these mean a train is approaching or about to cross, and trains take much longer to stop than vehicles. You should come to a full stop at least 15 feet from the tracks, stay there until the lights stop flashing and the gates rise, then proceed only when the crossing is clearly clear. While stopped, look both ways and be sure no other trains are coming on any of the tracks.

Actions like continuing slowly, honking to warn the train, or trying to pass while the crossing is blocked are unsafe and illegal, because the crossing is not safe until the signals indicate it’s fully open.