What You Must Do When Approaching a Railroad Crossing

What You Must Do When Approaching a Railroad Crossing

When you’re cruising down the road, the last thing on your mind might be the next railroad crossing—especially if you’ve crossed a hundred of them before. But did you know that approaching these crossings requires a different mindset? Here’s the thing: safety should always be your priority.

Slow Down: The First Step to Safety

So, what’s the first thing you should do? You guessed it: slow down! I mean, if you think about it, trains are not like cars; they don’t stop on a dime. And trust me, the last thing you want is to be in a situation where you’re racing against a speeding train.

Here’s a startling fact: trains can travel up to 55 mph or more, and they can take a mile or more to come to a halt. Just think about that for a second—it's like trying to stop a giant moving rock. Allowing yourself time to observe the tracks gives you the upper hand.

Look for Trains: The Eye Test

Now, once you’ve slowed down, it’s time for the fun part: looking for trains! This is not just a casual glance; you need to really pay attention. Is there a train coming? Can you hear that classic horn? The key is to be vigilant. Think of it like trying to spot a friend in a crowded room. You’re not just looking; you’re actively searching!

And let me break it down for you further—railroad crossings can sometimes lack signals or gates, especially in rural areas. This means that you must be your own guardian, keeping an eye out, using your keen senses to determine whether it's safe to cross.

Common Mistakes: What Not To Do

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room. Many drivers sometimes think:

• Speeding up to Clear the Crossing: This is a huge red flag! If you’re in a hurry, it doesn’t justify putting your life—and the lives of others—at risk.
• Continuing at Your Current Speed: This is equivalent to playing with fire. If you drive at your current speed without checking for trains, you might be in for a nasty surprise.
• Signaling Before Crossing: Believe it or not, signaling is not required at railroad crossings. Your main focus should be the tracks—not what gear you're in or whether the car behind you has a clear view.

The Final Word: Safety in Your Hands

In the grand scheme of things, approaching a railroad crossing safely boils down to three words: slow down, look, listen. You’ll not only be following the rules but also cultivating a habit that ensures your safety and that of your passengers. And let’s be honest—who wants to find themselves in a catastrophic situation due to a split-second decision that was made in haste?

Always remember, your actions on the road affect more than just you. Every time you approach a railroad crossing, you’re making a choice. Let’s make it a good one! No one wants a train wreck—literally. So, take your time, keep your eyes peeled, and navigate wisely!