Railroad crossing safety is very important for drivers and people walking. It matters all over the United States. Knowing each sign for railway crossing helps keep people safe. Understanding what signals mean can stop bad accidents. Recent numbers show Texas and California have the most crashes and deaths at railroad crossings.

Drivers who pay attention and follow the sign for railway crossing stay safer. They lower their chance of getting hurt. Safety gets better when they listen to signals and gates. Crossings without traffic control are more dangerous. By learning what to do and staying alert, people keep themselves and others safe.

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キーテイクアウト

• Always watch for railroad crossing signs and signals. They give important safety information.
• At controlled crossings, obey all signals. Do not drive around gates. Never ignore flashing lights.
• At uncontrolled crossings, slow down and look both ways. Listen for trains before you cross.
• If your car stops on the tracks, get out right away. Move away at a 45-degree angle from the train’s path.
• Share railroad safety tips with others. Teaching friends and family helps stop accidents.

Railroad Crossing Types

Railroad crossing types are split into two groups. These are controlled and uncontrolled crossings. Each type has its own safety problems for drivers and people walking. Knowing how they are different helps everyone stay safe near railroad tracks.

Controlled Crossings

Controlled crossings have warning devices that work when a train is near. These devices are flashing lights, ゲート, and warning bells. Transportation authorities call these “active controls.” They give clear signals to stop and wait. Most busy railroad crossings use these systems.

ヒント: Always follow the signals at controlled crossings. Do not drive around gates or ignore flashing lights.

The table below shows how many collisions happen at each crossing type:

Collisions can still happen even with active controls. Drivers need to pay attention and follow all signals at every railroad crossing.

Uncontrolled Crossings

Uncontrolled crossings are also called passive crossings. They do not have warning devices that work when a train is near. その代わり, they use signs like crossbucks or advance warning signs. Drivers and people walking must look and listen for trains before crossing. These crossings are often found in rural or quiet areas.

• About half of railroad crossings in the United States are uncontrolled.
• There are more than 130,000 passive crossings in the country.

Uncontrolled crossings need extra care. People should slow down, look both ways, and make sure no train is coming before crossing. Without signals, each person must be careful to stay safe.

Railroad Crossing Signs

Railroad crossing signs help keep people safe near train tracks. Knowing what each sign means helps drivers and walkers avoid danger. There are two kinds of signs. Active signs use lights or sounds. Passive signs only use pictures or shapes. Each sign for railway crossing gives a message to guide safe choices.

Advance Warning Sign for Railway Crossing

The advance warning sign is the first sign drivers see near train tracks. It is round and yellow. It has a big black “x” and an “R” on each side. This sign means “Railroad crossing ahead—slow down, look, and listen.” Drivers see this sign before they get to the tracks. They should slow down and watch for trains. Walkers do not use this sign, but it warns everyone to be careful.

• The advance warning sign is round and yellow.
• It shows a big black “x” with an “R” on both sides.
• The sign for railway crossing tells drivers to slow down, look, and listen for trains.

Studies show drivers slow down and pay more attention when they see this sign. Not all drivers stop, so staying alert is important. New signs with LEDライト are easier to see in bad weather. These signs can connect to rail systems for better safety.

Crossbuck Sign

The crossbuck sign shows where the railroad crossing is. This sign for railway crossing looks like a white “x” と “RAILROAD CROSSING” written on it. The crossbuck sign is a rule sign. Drivers must let trains go first. The MUTCD says this sign must be at all public crossings. Railroad companies put up and take care of these signs.

Drivers must let trains go first at crossbuck signs. Some drivers think they always have to stop, but the law says to yield unless a train is coming. Walkers also use the crossbuck sign to know when to look and listen before crossing.

No Train Horn Sign

The no train horn sign is in quiet zones. Trains do not blow their horns here unless there is an emergency. These signs help keep neighborhoods quiet. Drivers and walkers need to be extra careful. The sign for railway crossing in quiet zones reminds everyone that trains may come quietly.

• The no train horn sign means trains will not blow their horns at some crossings.
• Quiet zones are in places like Durand, Michigan; マサチューセッツ; カリフォルニア; and New Braunfels, テキサス.
• Safety risks go up because trains may come without warning sounds.

It is illegal and unsafe to go around gates at these crossings. Trains need a long time to stop, so guessing their speed is dangerous. Ignoring safety rules makes accidents more likely.

Low Ground Clearance Sign

The low ground clearance sign warns drivers about getting stuck on the tracks. This sign for railway crossing is important for big trucks, バス, トレーラー, and RVs. These vehicles can get stuck because they are low to the ground.

The Low Ground Clearance Grade Crossing Sign (W10-5) tells drivers to check their vehicle before crossing. Drivers must make sure their vehicle can cross the tracks safely.

• Tractor-trailers
• Buses
• Personal trailers
• Recreational vehicles

Low-clearance vehicles have the most trouble at these crossings. Drivers should always make sure their vehicle is off the tracks before moving on.

Side Street Warning Sign

The side street warning sign is near places where a railroad crossing is just after a turn. This sign for railway crossing tells drivers to expect train tracks right after turning. Drivers should slow down and be ready to stop if a train is coming.

Drivers need to pay close attention when they see side street warning signs. These signs help stop crashes by reminding drivers to look for trains. Walkers also use these signs to know when to be careful near tracks.

ヒント: Drivers should follow advance warning signs and crossbuck signs to stay safe. Walkers should wait for active signs and signals before crossing.

Railroad crossing signs are important for safety. Knowing the types of railroad crossing signs and what they mean helps stop accidents and keeps everyone safe near train tracks.

Railroad Crossing Signals

Flashing Lights

Flashing lights are a main warning at railroad crossings. These lights turn on when a train is coming. The system checks the train’s speed and location. It turns on the lights to warn drivers and people walking. Bells often ring at the same time as the lights. This helps people who do not see the lights. Both flashing lights and bells help keep everyone safe near the tracks.

Gates and Barriers

Gates and barriers block the road when a train is near. The gate arms go down in order to show cars and people must stop. Many busy crossings use both lights and gates together for more safety. Raised medians and barrier walls stop drivers from going around the gates. Big railroads have added extra gates for cars and walkers to make crossings safer. 米国で, most railroad crossings do not have gates. これにより、事故により可能性が高くなります. Gates help lower crashes and protect people.

Warning Bells

Warning bells ring with the lights and gates at crossings. The bells start when a train is coming. The sound is loud enough for everyone to hear. Bells and sirens help people who do not see the lights. The bells stop after the train goes by and it is safe to cross.

Emergency Notification System (ENS)

The Emergency Notification System gives emergency contact details at every crossing. Each ENS sign shows the railroad’s emergency phone number. It also shows the National Crossing Inventory Number. This number helps emergency workers find the crossing fast. The ENS lets anyone report problems or emergencies quickly. This makes it easier to get help right away.

Railroad Crossing Safety Practices

Approaching the Crossing

Drivers must be careful near a railroad crossing. 初め, ゆっくりと停止する準備をしてください. Look both ways for a train. Listen for warning whistles or bells. Turn off the radio and open the window to hear better. Do not text or wear headphones. These can make you miss important signals.

• Slow down as you get close to the crossing.
• Only cross at places marked for railroad crossings.
• Watch for flashing lights, bells, or gates.
• Test your brakes to make sure you can stop.
• Go slow enough to stop if a train comes.

ヒント: Rail safety education says trains can come faster than they look. Always think a train could be coming at every crossing.

Stopping and Looking

When you reach the crossing, stopping and looking is very important. 少なくともやめなさい 15 feet from the tracks if you see flashing lights, gates down, or a train coming. Never stop your car on the tracks. If you must stop, make sure your car is not on the rails.

• Get rid of distractions and turn down the radio.
• Look both ways for trains, even if gates are up.
• Wait for gates to go all the way up and lights to stop before you go.
• Never drive around gates or try to beat a train.
• Always check for another train before you cross.

A table below shows how far you must stop:

アラート: Trains are wider than the rails. Always stop before the tracks to stay safe.

Crossing Safely

To cross safely, pay close attention and be patient. Do not change gears while on the tracks. This helps you avoid stalling. Keep space between your car and the one in front. This stops you from getting stuck on the tracks. Always follow traffic signals. Wait for gates to go up and lights to stop before moving.

• Make sure there is enough room to cross before you start.
• Watch for people walking or biking across the tracks.
• Be careful when turning near railroad crossings.
• Watch out for other cars, バス, or trucks that may stop first.
• If you cannot see well, be extra careful and use rail safety education to help you decide.

If your car stalls on the tracks, get out right away. Move away at a 45-degree angle toward the train’s direction. This keeps you safer from flying debris if there is a crash.

After Crossing

After you cross the tracks, keep paying attention. Do not stop or park on or near the tracks. Check your mirrors to make sure your car is clear of the crossing. If the gates start to come down after you begin crossing, keep going. It is safer to break the gate than to stop.

• Stay alert for signals that another train is coming.
• Never back up onto the tracks.
• Share rail safety education with others to help keep everyone safe.

注記: Learning about railroad crossing safety helps stop crashes and saves lives. Every driver helps make the roads safer.

Emergency Safety Procedures

Vehicle Stalled on Tracks

A car stuck on railroad tracks is very dangerous. Many things can cause this to happen. Sometimes cars break down when drivers slow down for rough tracks. Some drivers panic if they see a train coming. This makes it hard to start the car again. Cars with low ground clearance can get stuck on the tracks. When a car stalls, you must act fast. Waiting too long makes a crash with a train more likely. The Federal Railroad Administration says hang-ups cause many stalls. Drivers need to move quickly to stay safe.

アラート: Never try to push or restart your car if a train is coming. Your safety is the most important thing.

Using the ENS Sign

The Emergency Notification System (ENS) sign helps in railroad emergencies. Every public crossing has a blue ENS sign. This sign shows a special crossing number and an emergency phone number. If your car stalls, you should get out right away. Move away from the tracks, even if you do not see a train. Find the ENS sign near the crossing. Call the number on the sign and tell the operator the crossing number. The ENS connects you to railroad workers who can warn train crews and emergency teams. Acting fast can stop a disaster.

Evacuation Steps

Getting out safely from a stalled car on tracks needs calm steps. 初め, leave the car right away. Move at a 45-degree angle toward the train’s direction. This helps keep you safe from flying debris. Get as far from the tracks as you can. For big vehicles, make sure everyone gets out fast. Group leaders should check that all people are safe.

ヒント: Always teach passengers how to get out in an emergency before going near railroad crossings.

Emergency steps save lives. Knowing what to do in a railroad emergency helps stop injuries and keeps cars from getting hit by trains.

Special Safety Considerations

Trucks and Large Vehicles

Drivers of trucks and big vehicles have special problems at railroad crossings. These vehicles need extra space and time to stop. Drivers should watch for advance warning signs. They must make sure they can see the crossing clearly. Warning signs help drivers get ready early. Signals should give enough time for trucks to stop before a train comes. Hills near the tracks can make crossing harder for big vehicles.

School Buses and Hazmat Vehicles

School buses and trucks with hazardous materials must follow strict rules at railroad crossings. Drivers have to stop at every crossing unless signals say it is safe to go. 各州には独自のルールがあります, but most say drivers must open the door and look both ways before crossing.

1. Trucks with hazardous materials need diamond-shaped placards.
2. Drivers must have a CDL with an ‘H’ endorsement.
3. Drivers must pass a test about hazardous material rules.

歩行者の安全

People walking near railroad crossings must pay attention. Using phones or listening to music can be dangerous. Always cross at places with signs, ライト, or gates. Never walk along the tracks. Before crossing, stop and look both ways. Listen for trains. Cross quickly and do not stop on the tracks. If you use a bike, stroller, or wheelchair, cross straight over the tracks.

• Always think a train could come from either way.
• Only cross at public crossings with signs, ライト, or gates.
• Never go around gates that are down or flashing lights.
• Wait after a train passes because another train might come.

ヒント: The safest and legal place to cross is at a marked railroad crossing.

You need to pay close attention at every railroad crossing. Drivers and people walking must know the signs, 信号, と障壁. Always look and listen for trains before crossing the tracks. Sharing railroad crossing safety tips helps everyone stay careful. People who use these tips have fewer accidents at crossings. Stay updated and tell others to respect railroad crossings for safer trips near train tracks.

While following these safety practices is essential, effective signage plays a key role in ensuring compliance and preventing accidents. Traffic safety signs not only warn drivers of the crossing but also help enforce regulations, especially in quiet zones where train noise must be minimized. To learn more about how traffic safety signs help enforce quiet zones at railroad crossings, ブログをご覧ください: “交通安全標識がどのように鉄道交差点で静かなゾーンを強制するのに役立つか”.

よくある質問

What should drivers do if they see a train approaching a crossing?

Drivers must stop at least 15 feet from the tracks. They should wait until the train passes and all signals stop before crossing. Safety comes first at every crossing.

What are the different types of railroad crossings?

There are two main types of railroad crossings: uncontrolled crossings そして controlled crossings. Uncontrolled crossings have only basic signage to warn drivers of an approaching train. Controlled crossings, 一方で, have additional safety measures such as flashing lights, ゲート, and audible signals to help regulate traffic and ensure safe crossing. The type of crossing depends on the volume of traffic and the speed of trains in the area.

What is the sign for a railroad crossing?

The standard sign for a railroad crossing is a crossbuck sign, which looks like an “x” 言葉で “RAILROAD CROSSING” written on it. This sign is typically placed near the tracks to warn drivers of the potential for trains. At crossings with higher traffic or in more dangerous locations, additional signs such as 点滅するライト, ゲート, そして warning lights may be used for extra safety.

What is the difference between the two railroad crossing signs?

The difference between the two railroad crossing signs typically lies in their function. The crossbuck sign serves as a general warning of a crossing, while additional signs such as 点滅するライト または ゲート offer more specific, active warnings when a train is approaching. The crossbuck sign is passive, simply informing drivers of the crossing, while the flashing lights and gates are active signs that help control traffic and prevent accidents by stopping vehicles before the train crosses.

When approaching a railroad crossing, you must look for what?

When approaching a railroad crossing, you must look for 電車 そして 信号. Always check for any 点滅するライト, ゲート, または crossbuck signs, which indicate the presence of an active crossing. Look both ways to ensure that no train is approaching, and be aware of any sounds or signals that might alert you to an incoming train. Always stop if the gates are down or if lights are flashing, and never attempt to cross until it is safe to do so.