What steps should you take at a railroad crossing when approaching a stopped bus?

• A. Reduce speed, be prepared to stop, observe signals, and proceed only when safe.
• B. Increase speed to beat the crossing.
• C. Ignore signals if no train is coming.
• D. Stop and wait for a police officer.

Answer: (A)

Approaching a railroad crossing requires careful caution and following the crossing rules. You should slow down to a safe speed, be prepared to stop if the signals or gates indicate danger, and actively observe all signals and the surrounding area. You only cross when it is clearly safe, with no train approaching and enough time and space to cross without stopping abruptly.

If a bus is stopped near the crossing, this approach still holds. Don’t speed up to beat the crossing or ignore signals—trains can be closer than they appear and signals can change quickly. You also wouldn’t rely on a police officer to direct you through a crossing in normal conditions; you follow the posted signals and crossing controls. The goal is to maintain a safe margin and cross only when it’s truly safe.