Mississippi Written Drivers Test Practice

How should you approach a railroad crossing?

1. Accelerate to cross quickly

2. Slow down, look for trains, and proceed if clear

3. Ignore signals if no train is visible

4. Only look for signals when stopped

The correct answer is: Slow down, look for trains, and proceed if clear

Approaching a railroad crossing requires a cautious and attentive approach to ensure safety. By slowing down and looking for trains, you are allowing yourself the necessary time to observe both the crossing signals and the track itself. This behavior helps to identify whether a train is approaching, which may not always be visible until it is very close. The importance of this cautious approach lies in the unpredictable nature of trains; they may be approaching faster than anticipated and can come from either direction. In addition, train signals are your primary indication of whether it is safe to cross. If you see flashing lights or hear a train horn, those are crucial alerts that you should never ignore. This prudent strategy significantly reduces the risk of collisions at railroad crossings, which can be fatal. Being prepared and vigilant while approaching these crossings is crucial for all drivers, making the approach that emphasizes slowing down and observing the area the safest choice.