Is it illegal to go around railroad crossings?

Is It Illegal To Go Around Railroad Crossings?

It has become a common occurrence to see impatient drivers attempting to circumnavigate railroad crossings, especially when they believe the wait is too long. The burning question is, ‘Is it illegal to go around railroad crossings?’ The answer, in clear, conclusive terms, is a resounding yes. According to the law governing railroad crossings, it is not only illegal but also exceedingly dangerous to bypass a railroad crossing when the gates are down.

Why is it so? It stems from the potential harm such a practice can cause. Trains are heavy-duty vehicles that cannot stop instantly. Thus, when a car attempts to cross the tracks disregarding the gates, it places every person involved in grave danger. Not to mention that the violation of traffic laws, such as this, is a punishable offense, attracting steep fines and potentially even jail time in certain jurisdictions. Let’s delve into this topic a bit further by addressing some of the frequently asked questions related to this topic.

Why Should Motorists Adhere to Railroad Crossing Laws?

To put it simply, it’s a matter of life and death. Railroad crossing rules have been established to ensure safety for all – drivers, pedestrians, and train passengers. Trains, given their mass and speed, require a much longer distance to come to a halt in comparison to other vehicles. If a motor vehicle disregards the signals and gets caught on the tracks, there isn’t much the train driver can do to prevent a catastrophe. Therefore, it is incumbent on the motorists to respect and adhere to the railroad crossing laws.

What Are the Penalties for Disobeying Railroad Crossing Rules?

Penalties for violations vary from one jurisdiction to another. Generally, they range from hefty fines to imprisonment, revocation of driving licence, or a combination of these. In the U.S., for example, the fine can be as high as $250 for first-time offenders. The fine can increase considerably for subsequent offences, and in certain severe cases, it may even lead to imprisonment. The main aim of these penalties is to discourage casual disregard of the traffic laws at railroad crossings.

How Can Accidents at Railroad Crossings be Prevented?

– Abide by the law: Wait patiently for the crossing gates to lift before proceeding with your journey. Never attempt to bypass a railroad crossing when the gates are down.
– Stay alert: Always look both ways before crossing. Listen carefully for warning bells or whistles.
– Never get trapped: Never enter a crossing unless there is sufficient space on the other side to accommodate your vehicle.

What to Do If Your Vehicle Stalls on a Railroad Crossing?

If your vehicle stalls or gets stuck on the tracks, the first thing to do is to get everyone out and away from the tracks immediately. The next step is to locate the Emergency Notification System sign and contact the railway with the information provided. This action ensures that incoming trains are alerted of the situation on time.

Are There Any Special Rules for School Buses & Trucks That Transport Hazardous Materials?

Yes, school buses and trucks carrying hazardous materials must stop at all railroad crossings, whether or not a train is coming. This regulation is in place due to the high risk involved should an accident occur with such vehicles.

Overall, ignoring the rules at railroad crossings is not only unlawful but also life-threatening. Observing patience at these points could essentially be the difference between life and death.