Railway crossingUnited States

A railway crossing is a place where a road or path crosses railway tracks at the same level.

It may also be called a level crossing or, particularly in North America, a railroad crossing.

It may be indicated by warning signs, crossbuck signs, barriers, flashing lights, bells or road markings. The design differs between countries.

A protected crossing uses full or partial barriers to block road traffic when a train approaches. A crossing without barriers relies on signs, lights, bells or the road user’s own observation.

Not necessarily. You must stop when required by lights, barriers, signs, an approaching train or an authorised person. At an unprotected crossing, slow down and proceed only after checking that no train is approaching.

Flashing red lights mean stop and do not enter the crossing. Remain stopped until the signal permits you to continue.

No. Do not enter while a barrier is lowering, rising or closed. Wait until the crossing is fully open and all prohibiting signals have stopped.

No. Never drive, cycle or walk around or underneath a closed or moving barrier.

A warning bell or audible signal normally means that the crossing is closing or that a train is approaching. Do not enter the crossing while it is sounding.

In some countries, a flashing white light indicates that the crossing equipment is operating and road users may pass when the route is clear. Its exact meaning depends on local law.

Reduce speed, look and listen carefully in both directions and cross only after making sure that no train or other rail vehicle is approaching.

Not automatically. Another train may approach on a second track. Wait until all warning signals stop and the crossing is fully open.

Do not enter the crossing unless there is enough room beyond the tracks for your entire vehicle. Never rely on traffic moving before a train arrives.

No. Railway tracks must always remain clear. Do not stop because of congestion, traffic lights or another obstruction beyond the crossing.

Overtaking is often prohibited or restricted because another vehicle can obstruct the view of an approaching train or warning signal. Follow local signs and overtaking rules.

No. Stopping or parking on the tracks creates an immediate and potentially fatal danger.

Yes. Pedestrians and cyclists must obey barriers, lights, bells and authorised personnel in the same way as other road users.

Where possible, cross the rails at an angle close to 90 degrees. Rails can trap a bicycle wheel, especially when they are wet or cross the road diagonally.

Make sure the entire vehicle and any trailer can clear the crossing without stopping. Consider the available space, road gradient, turning room and traffic beyond the tracks.

Observe all height restrictions and warning signs. Electrified railway lines may have overhead equipment that can be struck by an excessively high vehicle or load.

Treat the crossing with extreme caution. Do not assume that no train is approaching merely because the lights or barriers are not operating.

Evacuate everyone immediately, move well away from the railway and contact the emergency services or railway operator. Do not remain in the vehicle or return for belongings.

Not always. A railway crossing normally crosses tracks that are separate from the carriageway, while tram or street-running railway tracks may form part of the road itself.