What happens when railroad crossing gate malfunction?

In most cases, a rail crossing failure results in the gates being down with no train in sight. Gates failing in the down position is actually a safety design. Other types of crossing issues, such as the failure of a gate to activate for a train, are rare but should definitely be reported to 911 immediately.



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Many in the rail industry will tell you that crossing signal systems are designed to be fail-safe. But the truth is that nation-wide, railroad crossing gates fail to work 300 to 400 times per year, according to the Federal Railroad Administration.

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Near Railroad or Light Rail Tracks Flashing red warning lights indicate you must stop and wait. Do not proceed over the railroad tracks until the red lights stop flashing, even if the gate rises.

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Railroad Crossing Signals Flashing red lights, lowered crossing gates and/or a bell at a railroad crossing indicate that you must stop, at least 15 feet (5 m) from the tracks.

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Active Grade Crossings have active warning and control devices such as bells, flashing lights, and gates, in addition to passive warning devices such as crossbucks (the familiar x-shaped signs that mean yield to the train), yield or stop signs and pavement markings.

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Steps for Navigating Crossings Stop, look both ways, and listen. Know that trains always have the right of way. Don't stop on the tracks. Make sure you have room to get across.

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A low-voltage electric current is sent between the two rails via a series of relays like the ones in this photo. When a train approaches, the current runs through the train's metal wheels and axles instead of the relays. This short circuit activates the crossing signal.

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Although every accident is different, most railroad crossing accidents are usually a result of:
  • No warning signals.
  • Faulty or malfunctioning warning signals.
  • Vision obstructions on or near the track (like tall grass, fencing, signs, or buildings)
  • The operator's failure to signal.
  • Track defects.
  • Track obstructions.


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Figures from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) state that approximately 60% of all railroad crossing fatalities occur at unprotected or passive crossings.

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Red flashing lights and gates Many crossbuck signs have red lights and bells attached. Some even have gates which cross the traffic lane. If the lights begin to flash or the bells begin to ring, STOP! A train is coming.

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A stop line, an X and the letters RR may be painted on the pavement in front of railroad crossings. These markings warn you to be aware of the crossing ahead and to pay particular attention to the possible approach of a train.

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The advance warning sign is a round, yellow sign bearing the lettering RXR. The X is very large, covering the full diameter of the sign. It is usually the first warning you will see that you are approaching a railroad crossing. Slow down, look and listen for an approaching train.

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