CDL General Knowledge TestDriving SafelyHard
You are driving a commercial vehicle and must cross a set of railroad tracks. The crossing has a 'stop sign' but no flashing lights or gates. What is the correct procedure for crossing these tracks?
- AStop only if you hear a train horn or see a train approaching.
- BTreat it like a normal intersection, yielding to cross-traffic.
- CStop at least 15 feet but not more than 50 feet from the nearest rail, look and listen, then proceed when safe.
- DSlow down, look both ways, and proceed if no train is visible.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Stop at least 15 feet but not more than 50 feet from the nearest rail, look and listen, then proceed when safe.
Commercial vehicles, especially those carrying passengers or certain hazardous materials, are required to stop at all railroad crossings that are not specifically designated as exempt, regardless of warning devices. The stop must be made between 15 and 50 feet from the nearest rail.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Waiting for a train to be heard or seen is too late and dangerous; a full stop and check are required.
- B. Railroad crossings are not treated like normal intersections; they have specific, stricter rules for CMVs.
- D. This is insufficient for a 'stop sign' crossing, which requires a full stop for commercial vehicles.
CMV Railroad Crossing (Passive)
The specific legal requirements for commercial motor vehicles when approaching and crossing railroad tracks that lack active warning devices like flashing lights or gates.
- Mandatory stop required
- Specific stopping distance
- Look and listen carefully
Memory trick: Stop, Look, Listen, Live.