When approaching a railroad crossing warning sign:
- Be ready to drive faster than the train.
- Be prepared to stop if a train is nearby. ✓
- Look for a way around any lowered gates.
- Assume no trains are nearby and continue driving normally.
Answer: B. Be prepared to stop if a train is nearby.
Slow down and be ready to stop when you approach a railroad crossing warning sign, in case a train is coming.
Why this is the answer
The handbook says that when you approach a highway-railroad crossing you should slow down and be ready to stop. You must stop if the warning devices are flashing, the gate is lowered, a flagger signals an approaching train, or a train is clearly visible. Trains move faster than they look and cannot stop quickly, so the sign is your cue to prepare to stop rather than to keep going at speed.
Why the other answers are wrong
- A. Be ready to drive faster than the train. — The handbook warns that trains are often going faster than they appear and cannot stop quickly, so trying to beat one is not a safe plan.
- C. Look for a way around any lowered gates. — Going around or under a crossing gate, whether it is down or moving, is against the law per the handbook.
- D. Assume no trains are nearby and continue driving normally. — Assuming the tracks are clear ignores the sign's purpose and the handbook's instruction to slow down and be ready to stop.
Remember it
Treat the advance warning sign as a heads-up: ease off the gas and cover the brake until you know the tracks are clear.