Which statement correctly describes what you should do at a railroad crossing with gates down?

• A. Stop and wait for gates to raise
• B. Stop, then proceed when safe
• C. Do a quick check then proceed
• D. Drive around the gates if no train is near

Answer: (A)

When you reach a railroad crossing with gates down, you must stop and wait until the gates rise and the crossing is clearly safe. Gates are lowered to physically block traffic because a train is near or approaching, and trains can be much closer and faster than you expect. You can’t judge the situation safely from behind those gates or by trying to beat the train; that’s why you stop and wait. Stay stopped until the red lights stop flashing, the gates are fully up, and you can see the tracks are clear in both directions. Then you may proceed with caution. Crossing around down gates or attempting to speed through is dangerous and illegal, so waiting is the correct action every time.