USAREUR Practice Exam

When may drivers cross the tracks of an unguarded railroad crossing marked by a flashing light after a train has passed?

1. As soon as the train clears the crossing.

2. When the flashing red light goes out.

3. Only after checking for other vehicles.

4. When the crossing gates have lifted.

The correct answer is: When the flashing red light goes out.

The correct choice is anchored in the understanding of safety protocols associated with unguarded railroad crossings with flashing lights. Drivers must wait until the flashing red light goes out before crossing. This signal indicates that it is safe to proceed, as it is designed to alert drivers to the presence of an approaching train. The activation of a flashing light means that a train is either approaching the crossing or is already on the tracks, and the lights will typically continue flashing for a period after the train has passed to ensure that no other trains are coming in the opposite direction. Thus, crossing before the lights stop may put drivers at risk of encountering another train or not being fully aware of their surroundings. This practice emphasizes the importance of adhering to the signals to ensure not just the driver’s safety, but also that of other motorists and pedestrians. Therefore, the requirement to wait for the lights to turn off is a critical safety measure that should be followed at all times.