What should a driver do when approaching a railway crossing?

When approaching a railway crossing, the safest course of action is to slow down, look both ways, and only proceed when it is safe. This practice is crucial for several reasons. First, trains can come at high speeds and take a long distance to stop, meaning that drivers need to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings. Slowing down allows the driver to properly assess the situation and ensure that there are no trains approaching from either direction.

Additionally, looking both ways helps to ensure that the driver is fully aware of any upcoming trains that may not be immediately visible. This approach is heavily emphasized in driver training as it promotes caution and vigilance at a potentially dangerous intersection.

By only proceeding when it is safe, drivers are following the law and reducing the risk of accidents at railway crossings, where visibility and warning signals may sometimes be insufficient. This behavior not only protects the driver but also ensures the safety of rail operations and passengers.