Describe a highway railroad grade crossing?

Question

Describe a highway railroad grade crossing?

Answer 1

It is where a vehicle roadway crosses train track(s) at the same level as the tracks, or at "grade" level.

They may be dirt, wood, concrete or a combination.

They may be identified by "cross buck" (a sign that says 'railroad crossing' on a large "X" with white background and black letters) or cross buck with lights, or full protection with lights, gates and bells.  In remote areas they aren't identified at all to the motorist.

Since it has come up again, this is a good opportunity to say that even with crossing protection for crossings at grade, you should still practice the three biggies:  Stop.  Look.  Listen.

The reason why is simple.  Crossing protection can fail for reasons other than power failure, which is usually provided for with battery back-up.  It is foolish to place all your trust in them for that reason.

So, the only safe way to cross ANY tracks is to stop (not always an option with the jerk on your bumper or during periods of heavy traffic) look (a real look.  A glance will get you killed) and listen by turning off the music and rolling down the window.

Anything short of the above is rolling the dice.  People are frequently killed and maimed by trains that they didn't see or hear.  I know that sounds strange, but it is the absolute truth.

Good safety questions rate a star... here's yours.