To cross a railway crossing safely, you should
- look both ways only if the signals are flashing.
- look both ways for an approaching train and listen carefully. ✓
- first park within 10 feet of the crossing.
- do it quickly but back up if you notice a train.
Answer: B. look both ways for an approaching train and listen carefully.
You should look both ways for an approaching train and listen carefully before crossing the tracks.
Why this is the answer
The handbook says that when you reach a railway crossing, you should slow down, listen and look both ways to confirm the way is clear before crossing. It also notes that a train can need up to two kilometres to stop under full emergency braking, so you must be sure no train is coming before you ride over the tracks. Looking and listening every time is the safe habit the handbook describes.
Why the other answers are wrong
- A. look both ways only if the signals are flashing. — Looking only when the signals are flashing misses crossings without signal lights and trains that may already be approaching, so you still need to look and listen every time.
- C. first park within 10 feet of the crossing. — Parking near the crossing is not part of the handbook's procedure; if a train is coming, you should stop at least five metres from the nearest rail or gate.
- D. do it quickly but back up if you notice a train. — Rushing across and then backing up is unsafe; the handbook says never race a train to a crossing and do not cross until you are sure the train or trains have passed.
Remember it
At every crossing, think stop, look and listen before the tracks.