A 3-minute lesson from the Kentucky course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
Trains can't stop quickly—an average freight train at 55 mph may need a mile or more—so avoiding a crash at a crossing is up to you. Expect a train whenever you approach any railroad track, and remember that not every crossing has lights.
Railroad advance warning sign
Know the rule
A round yellow sign with an X and black 'RR' is placed before a highway-railroad grade crossing: slow down, look and listen for a train, and be prepared to stop.
When a train is approaching, stop behind the stop line or before the crossing until it's clear. At multi-track crossings the number of tracks may be posted—but not always, so check every crossing for more than one track and train.
At a multi-track crossing, don't start as soon as a train passes—wait for a clear view both ways; a second train may be coming. Never start across without room to get completely across and off the tracks.
Your car stalls on the tracks and the lights begin flashing. Get everyone out now and run away from the tracks toward the direction the train is coming from, then call the number posted near the crossbuck or 911.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
A round yellow sign with a black 'X' and 'RR' letters placed along the road before a crossing means:
Stop at the sign, then proceed
The crossing has been permanently closed
Slow, look, listen, and be ready to stop
Only trucks must stop
Answer: Slow, look, listen, and be ready to stop
This advance warning sign cautions you to slow, look, and listen, and be prepared to stop for a train.
