Cross the railway crossing safely

How to cross a railway crossing safely

A railway crossing may seem like a routine part of traffic, but it is one of the places where you need to be most alert. Trains always have right of way, and the consequences of a mistake can be fatal. That is why it is important to know the rules for crossing – regardless of whether there are barriers, signals or not.

Single track with barrier

When you encounter a level crossing with a barrier, you must always stop when the barrier comes down and when the red flashing signal is activated. It is prohibited to attempt to drive under the barrier or drive around it. You may only continue driving when the barriers are fully up and the red signal is off.

Single track without barrier

If there is no barrier, but only light or sound signals, the same principle applies: you must stop if the signal is red or activated. If there is neither a barrier nor a signal, you are obliged to slow down, look carefully in both directions and listen for trains before crossing.

Multiple tracks with barrier

Here it is especially important to be patient. Even if one train has passed, another may be coming from the opposite direction. Therefore, always wait until the barriers are fully raised and the signal is off before continuing.

Multiple tracks without barriers

This is the most risky type of crossing. You must stop, look carefully in both directions and only drive forward when you are absolutely sure that all tracks are clear. It is a good idea to check once more – a train may be coming faster than you think.

Rule of thumb

At any level crossing, it is better to stop once too often than once too little. Trains cannot brake quickly, and the responsibility for crossing safely always lies with the person driving over the crossing. Technical equipment can fail, so you should always look carefully both ways.