Railroads

You should be particularly cautious in crossing railroad tracks because of the human lives in your custody.

Buses Must Stop

Buses must stop at all railroad crossings

EXCEPT:

• Where traffic is controlled by a police officer or authorized flagman.
• Where traffic is regulated by a traffic control signal.
• Where traffic is protected by crossing gates or flashing lights signal which give warning of an approaching train.
• Where an official traffic control device indicates stopping requirements do not apply.

Procedures for Crossing Railroad Tracks

Use the following procedures as you approach a railroad crossing:

• Quiet passengers, turn off noisy fans, radios, etc.;
• Activate the four-way hazard lights;
• Stop 15 to 50 feet from the nearest rail and look both ways and listen for approaching trains.
• School bus drivers will open the service door, look both ways, and listen for approaching trains. Then, close the service door and look both directions;
• If no trains are approaching, move across the tracks (do not change gears while crossing the tracks);
• After crossing, cancel the four-way hazard lights.

When crossing multiple tracks, remember to watch for approaching trains on all tracks.

Draw Bridges

Buses are required to stop at all draw bridges except:

• When a traffic “stop and go” signal protects the drawbridge; or
• Where an attendant or traffic officer controls the drawbridge traffic.

Use the following procedures as you approach a drawbridge.

• Slow down and look to see if a signal, attendant, or officer controls the drawbridge traffic.
• If not, stop not less than 50 feet from the lip of the draw.
• Proceed only when you are certain the drawbridge is completely closed.

Continue to:

1. Backing
2. Reference Point Driving

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