When approaching a railway crossing and the signal lights are activated, how far must you stop?

When approaching a railway crossing where the signal lights are activated, the requirement is to stop at least 5 metres from the nearest rail. This distance is important because it ensures the safety of the driver as well as any potential passengers or pedestrians. Stopping at this distance provides enough space to observe the tracks and any approaching trains while minimizing the risk of being too close to the moving train. Furthermore, this rule aligns with safety regulations aimed at preventing accidents at railway crossings, as approaching trains may be traveling at high speeds and can take time to stop.

In many jurisdictions, including Ontario, specific rules are established for the distance a vehicle should stop from railway tracks when signals are activated. This is why the determination to stop at 5 metres is a vital precautionary measure and is standardized to ensure consistency and safety at all railway crossings.