CDL General Knowledge TestDriving SafelyMedium
You are driving a commercial vehicle and must cross a set of railroad tracks that appear to be abandoned. What is the safest course of action?
- AAssume the tracks are no longer in use and drive over them normally.
- BSlow down, look both ways, and listen for a train before proceeding.
- CProceed quickly across the tracks after a brief glance.
- DStop completely, get out, and inspect the tracks for signs of use before crossing.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Slow down, look both ways, and listen for a train before proceeding.
Even abandoned-looking tracks can become active unexpectedly. The safest procedure is to treat all railroad crossings as active: slow down, look both ways, and listen for a train.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Assuming tracks are abandoned is a dangerous assumption that can lead to severe accidents.
- C. Proceeding quickly or with only a brief glance is extremely dangerous.
- D. While 'Get Out And Look' (G.O.A.L.) is good practice for backing, it's not required for every railroad crossing. Slowing, looking, and listening is the standard.
Abandoned Railroad Crossing Safety
Treat all railroad crossings, even those appearing abandoned, as active by slowing down, looking, and listening for trains.
- Tracks can be reactivated without notice.
- Visibility and sound checks are crucial.
- Never assume a crossing is safe without verifying.
Memory trick: Tracks, active or not, always Look, Listen, and Slow.