You are driving a commercial vehicle and must cross a set of railroad tracks. The tracks are marked with a 'Do Not Stop On Tracks' sign. Your vehicle is 50 feet long. The distance from the stop line to the far side of the tracks is 60 feet. There is a traffic light immediately after the tracks. What is the safest action to take?
- AStop on the tracks if the traffic light is red, but be prepared to move immediately if a train approaches.
- BFlash your headlights and honk your horn to alert traffic behind you that you are proceeding.
- CProceed across the tracks quickly, as the traffic light is only 10 feet past your vehicle length.
- DWait before the tracks until you are sure there is enough space on the other side for your entire vehicle to clear the tracks, even if the light changes.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Wait before the tracks until you are sure there is enough space on the other side for your entire vehicle to clear the tracks, even if the light changes.
It is never safe to stop on railroad tracks. Given your vehicle length of 50 feet and the 60-foot clear distance, you would only have 10 feet of clearance after the tracks. If the light ahead turns red, you would be stuck on the tracks. You must wait until you are absolutely certain you can clear the tracks and have sufficient space on the other side, regardless of the traffic light.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Stopping on tracks is explicitly prohibited and extremely hazardous, regardless of train presence.
- B. Alerting traffic behind you does not solve the problem of being stuck on the tracks and can create confusion.
- C. This is extremely dangerous; 10 feet of clearance is insufficient, especially if the light changes and you must stop.
Railroad Crossing Safety (CMV)
Commercial vehicle drivers must exercise extreme caution at railroad crossings. Never stop on the tracks, and always ensure sufficient space to clear the tracks on the other side before proceeding.
- Always look and listen for trains.
- Never shift gears while on tracks.
- Ensure enough room to clear the tracks completely.
- Be aware of 'Do Not Stop On Tracks' signs.
Memory trick: Look, listen, and clear the tracks, or you'll have no way backs!