What should you do at an unprotected railroad crossing?

At an unprotected railroad crossing, reducing speed, searching for any oncoming trains, and listening for approaching trains is critical for your safety and the safety of others on the road. This approach allows you to carefully assess the situation before proceeding, as unprotected crossings do not have gates or signals to indicate an approaching train. By slowing down, you give yourself more time to observe and react to any potential hazards.

The need to search involves looking both ways down the track and ensuring no train is approaching. It's also important to listen for any sounds of trains, as they can alert you to their presence even if they are not immediately visible. This combination of reduced speed and heightened awareness significantly decreases the risk of an accident.

While simply checking visually may seem sufficient, it doesn't account for scenarios where a train might be out of view or approaching at high speed. Relying solely on visual checks may lead to tragic consequences, as trains can travel faster than they appear. Waiting for a signal before proceeding is not applicable at unprotected crossings, as these crossings lack any type of active warning devices. Thus, taking a proactive and cautious approach is essential for navigating unprotected railroad crossings safely.