When approaching a railway crossing where an electrical or mechanical signal device is warning of the approach of a train, you must…?
- Stop at least 5m from the nearest rail or gate ✓
- Increase speed and cross the tracks as quickly as possible
- Slow down and proceed with caution
- Stop not less than 1.5m from the nearest rail
Answer: A. Stop at least 5m from the nearest rail or gate
You must stop at least five metres from the nearest rail or gate when a signal device warns that a train is approaching.
Why this is the answer
The handbook says that when a train is coming at a railway crossing, you stop at least five metres from the nearest rail or gate. It also says not to cross until you are sure the train or trains have passed, and not to race a train. A warning signal means a train is approaching, so the required response is to stop back from the rail or gate and wait. The passage directly supports the five-metre stopping distance.
Why the other answers are wrong
- B. Increase speed and cross the tracks as quickly as possible — Increasing speed to cross quickly is the opposite of the handbook's instruction to stop when a train is coming and never race a train.
- C. Slow down and proceed with caution — Slowing down and proceeding with caution is not enough when a signal device warns of an approaching train; you must stop and wait.
- D. Stop not less than 1.5m from the nearest rail — The handbook gives five metres, so stopping 1.5 metres from the nearest rail is not the required stopping distance.
Remember it
An active signal means the crossing is closed to you; wait for it to clear.
Official handbook: Official MTO Driver's Handbook, Stopping – Stopping at railway crossings