Stopping at railway crossings

All railway crossings on public roads in Ontario are marked with large red and white ‘X’ signs. Watch for these signs and be prepared to stop. You may also see yellow advance warning signs and large ‘X’ pavement markings ahead of railway crossings. Some railway crossings have flashing signal lights and some use gates or barriers to keep drivers from crossing the tracks when a train is coming. Some less travelled crossings have stop signs posted. Remember it can take up to two kilometers for a train to stop under full emergency braking. On private roads, railway crossings may not be marked, so watch carefully.

When you come to a railway crossing, remember:

* Slow down, listen and look both ways to make sure the way is clear before crossing the tracks.

* If a train is coming, stop at least five meters from the nearest rail or gate. Do not cross the track until you are sure the train or trains have passed.

* Never race a train to a crossing.

* If there are signal lights, wait until they stop flashing and, if the crossing has a gate or barrier, wait until it rises, before you cross the tracks.

* Never drive around, under or through a railway gate or barrier while it is down, being lowered or being raised. It is illegal and dangerous.

* Avoid stopping in the middle of railway tracks; for example, in heavy traffic, make sure you have enough room to cross the tracks completely before you begin to cross.

* Avoid shifting gears while crossing tracks.

* If you get trapped on a crossing, immediately get everyone out and away from the vehicle. Move to a safe place and then contact authorities.

* Buses and other public vehicles are required to stop at railway crossings that are not protected by gates, signal lights, or a stop sign. School buses must stop at railway crossings whether or not they are protected by gates or signal lights. Watch for these buses and be prepared to stop behind them.

* If you are approaching a railway crossing with a stop sign, you must stop unless otherwise directed by a flagman.