Never attempt to race a train to a crossing. It is extremely difficult to judge the speed of an approaching train. Reduce Speed Speed must be reduced in accordance with your ability to see approaching trains in any direction, and speed must be held to a point which will permit you to stop short of the tracks in case a stop is necessary. Because of noise in the cab, you cannot expect to hear the train horn until the train is dangerously close to the crossing. Don't Rely on Signals You should not rely solely upon the presence of warning signals, gates, or flagmen to warn of the approach of trains.
Double tracks require a double check.
Remember that a train on one track may hide a train on the other track. Look both ways before crossing. After one train has cleared a crossing, be sure no other trains are near before starting across the tracks. Yard areas and grade crossings in cities and towns are just as dangerous as rural grade crossings. Approach them with as much caution.