The main purpose of the signs is to inform that driver that there is a railroad crossing up ahead. They are usually yellow or white and have two capital R’s on the left and right of an X. These signs don’t mean that a train is coming down the track, but only to yield. They let the driver know that there is a track.
Along with the signs, there is usually an X or two R’s painted on the pavement. These serve the same purpose at the signs, simply to tell the driver to be aware of the tracks ahead.
There are a few things that are recommended, but not required when you see these signs and are approaching a railroad. Turning the music down will help you hear the horn of the train in an …show more content…
If the lights on the railroad crossbuck sign are flashing, the driver must stop before getting too close to the train.
There are also gates that are with the railroad crossbuck sign. When the gate is down, the lights will be flashing. This means that you can not drive across the tracks.
It is important to never assume a train is not coming. Trains do not run on a fixed schedule, meaning that one could come and people at the crossing could not know. If you do happen to be on the tracks with a train coming, it is important to not shift gears, because your car could stall on the tracks resulting in an accident. Quickly drive to the other side of the tracks out of the railroad.
In the event that your car does stall on the tracks, get yourself and your passengers out of the vehicle. Notify authorities and go from there. If a train comes, run in the direction that the train is coming, away from the tracks to avoid being hit with debris from the