How to Safely Drive Through a Railroad Crossing?

[MacFaith]

Vehicles are permitted to pass, but turning vehicles must not impede the passage of through vehicles and pedestrians. Right-turning vehicles may proceed provided they do not hinder the movement of through vehicles and pedestrians. Turn signals are the primary devices for indicating a vehicle's dynamic information.

[VonTheo]

I've been driving trucks for decades and always take extra caution at railroad crossings. I slow down to around 10-15 mph, carefully checking both sides for approaching trains. When the signal lights flash or the barrier comes down, I obediently stop and wait until it rises before proceeding. Never try to beat a train at the crossing - that's extremely dangerous. Even if the barrier isn't down but I hear warning whistles, I'll stop to verify. I maintain steady speed when crossing, avoiding gear shifts to prevent stalling midway. I remember one rainy night when speeding nearly caused disaster - since then I've made it a habit to check navigation beforehand to avoid unguarded crossings. Bottom line: safety first. Trains outweigh vehicles by far, and any accident would mean serious trouble.