What must you do before going over a rail crossing?

7 Steps for Safety - Highway-Rail Grade Crossings (Visor Card)
  1. Approach with care. Warn others that you are slowing down. ...
  2. Prepare to stop. ...
  3. Look both ways and listen carefully. ...
  4. If it won't fit, don't commit. ...
  5. Look again. ...
  6. Cross tracks with care. ...
  7. Keep going once you start, even if lights start to flash or gates come down.




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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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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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Do not walk, run, cycle or operate all terrain vehicles (ATVs) on railroad tracks, rights-of-way or through tunnels. The only safe place to cross railroad tracks is at a designated public crossing. Do not cross the tracks immediately after a train passes. A second train might be blocked by the first.

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Safety tips: Walking on or beside railroad tracks is illegal. The only safe place to cross tracks is at designated public crossings with a crossbuck, flashing red lights or a gate. Crossing anywhere else is illegal.

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As you approach a railroad crossing, you must:
  1. Slow your speed.
  2. Look both ways.
  3. Listen for the train.
  4. Keep alert.
  5. Watch for the railroad crossing signal.


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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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If the lights begin to flash or the bells begin to ring, STOP! A train is coming. You must yield to the train and remain stopped until the lights have stopped flashing and the gates have lifted.

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Explanation: The smooth steel surface can be slippery and dangerous for motorcyclists, especially when it's wet. Try to cross tram lines at right angles.

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Motor vehicles transporting passengers and certain types of hazardous materials, as cited in 49 CFR 392.10(a), are forbidden from crossing railroad tracks without first stopping within 50 feet but no closer than 15 feet, listening, and looking both ways for an approaching train.

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