New York DMV Permit Written TestRules of the Road and Traffic LawsHard
You are approaching a railroad crossing that has flashing red lights and a lowered crossing gate. What is the legal requirement for stopping at this crossing?
- AStop at least 10 feet from the nearest rail.
- BStop at least 15 feet from the nearest rail, but no more than 50 feet.
- CStop directly at the crossing gate, regardless of distance from the rail.
- DStop at least 5 feet from the nearest rail.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Stop at least 15 feet from the nearest rail, but no more than 50 feet.
New York State law requires drivers to stop at least 15 feet from the nearest rail of a railroad crossing when flashing red lights are active or a gate is lowered. This distance ensures that your vehicle is clear of any train and provides a safe buffer.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While a common minimum for some states, NYS requires 15 feet.
- C. Stopping directly at the gate might still place you too close to the tracks if the gate is positioned far from the rails.
- D. This distance is too close and unsafe.
Railroad Crossing Stop Distance
When a railroad crossing has active warnings (flashing lights, lowered gates), you must stop your vehicle at least 15 feet from the nearest rail, but no more than 50 feet.
- Minimum stop distance: 15 feet from the nearest rail.
- Maximum stop distance: 50 feet from the nearest rail.
- Applies when lights flash, gates lower, or train approaches.
- Never drive around a lowered gate.
Memory trick: Fifteen to fifty, that's the safe zone, for stopping your car when a train's coming home.