What should you do when approaching a railroad crossing?

When approaching a railroad crossing, the safest and most prudent action is to always stop and look for trains. This practice is essential because trains can come at high speeds and are often difficult to see until they are very close. Stopping allows you to assess both sides of the tracks before crossing. It's crucial to give yourself adequate time to look for oncoming trains, as well as to listen for any whistles or signals that may indicate a train is approaching.

This choice emphasizes caution and responsibility. By keeping a lookout, you can also spot the lights or arms indicating if a train is present, preventing potentially life-threatening accidents.

In contrast, attempting to speed up to beat a train puts you at significant risk of an accident, as trains cannot stop quickly and may take a considerable distance to halt. Signaling your intention to cross may not be necessary or effective, as the priority is to ensure the tracks are clear before proceeding. Finally, proceeding without any precautions would be reckless and could easily lead to a collision, underscoring the importance of vigilance and safety at railroad crossings.