Which of the following statements about railway crossings is FALSE?
- Always yield to a train.
- Trains need a very long distance to stop.
- Railway crossings are marked with signs.
- If a train is approaching a railway crossing, try to beat it to the crossing. ✓
Answer: D. If a train is approaching a railway crossing, try to beat it to the crossing.
The false statement is that you should try to beat an approaching train to the crossing; the handbook says never race a train to a railway crossing.
Why this is the answer
The false statement is the one suggesting you try to beat an approaching train to the crossing. The handbook says never race a train to a crossing and tells you to stop at least five metres back from the closest rail or gate when a train is coming. It also explains that a train can need up to two kilometres to stop under emergency braking, and that public-road crossings are marked with red and white X signs. Those points support yielding, stopping and waiting, not trying to get across first.
Why the other answers are wrong
- A. Always yield to a train. — This is true and not the false statement: the handbook says to wait until a coming train has passed and not cross until the way is clear.
- B. Trains need a very long distance to stop. — This is true: the handbook notes a train can need up to two kilometres to stop under full emergency braking.
- C. Railway crossings are marked with signs. — This is true: the handbook says public-road railway crossings in Ontario are marked with large red and white X signs.
Remember it
If you can see a train, your plan is to wait, not race.