Which vehicles are required to stop at a railroad crossing?

At railroad crossings, certain vehicles are mandated to stop to ensure the safety of their passengers and the general public. Buses and trucks carrying hazardous materials are specifically required to stop at all railroad crossings, as these vehicles may pose a higher risk if involved in a collision with a train. Stopping allows the driver to assess the situation and ensure that the tracks are clear before proceeding.

This requirement is enforced due to the potential dangers posed by these types of vehicles, including carrying flammable or toxic substances that could lead to serious accidents if they were to collide with a train. While other types of vehicles, like passenger vehicles and school buses, may also have specific regulations to follow, the law emphasizes the need for buses and trucks carrying hazardous materials to stop as a precautionary measure. Overall, this helps to enhance safety at crossings and reduce the risk of tragic accidents involving trains.