Railroad Crossings: Stop. Look. Listen.

If you hold a CDL with a HazMat endorsement, you already know this truth deep in your bones:

“This vehicle stops at all railroad crossings.” No exceptions—well, a few legal ones under 49 CFR § 392.10b.

Empty track? Haven’t seen a train in years? Late at night with no activity in sight? It doesn’t matter. You must still come to a complete stop.

If there isn’t a green traffic signal governing the crossing, a flagger, or an “Exempt” or “Abandoned” sign, you must stop. HazMat rules don’t consider your tardiness or your patience. The law says stop, so we stop.

When Approaching a Railroad Crossing

1. Crack the windows
2. Pause what you’re listening to
3. Stop 15–50 feet before the tracks
4. Look left. Look right. Use that power mirror if necessary.
5. Listen really hard
6. Confirm no train is coming
7. Proceed (don’t shift while crossing—good luck if you’re driving an automatic)

Yes, the cars behind you are annoyed. Yes, they’re likely late for something. And yes, they will likely pass you aggressively right after the tracks.

But while others just get honked at, you get a ticket. And the fine for rolling a rail crossing with HazMat can ruin your week, your month, and possibly your employment. You’re not being slow—you’re being legal, professional, and employed.