What are the laws about stopping at railroad crossings?

In the District of Columbia, it is a law that drivers must stop at railroad crossings. This means that if a motor vehicle is approaching a railroad crossing, the driver must reduce their speed and be prepared to stop. If a train is visible or approaching the crossing, the driver must come to a complete stop at least fifteen feet before the railroad tracks and must remain stopped until the train has passed. If there is a stop sign posted at the intersection, drivers must comply with the posted sign. In addition to stopping for trains, drivers must also yield to pedestrians and bicyclists when approaching a railroad crossing. This means that if a pedestrian or bicyclist is trying to cross the tracks, drivers must stop and give them the right of way. Drivers must also remain stopped until the pedestrian or bicyclist has safely crossed the railroad tracks. It is important to note that while it is illegal to pass a stopped train on the tracks, it may be permissible to pass a stopped vehicle at the railroad crossing. However, caution must be taken when doing so because the vehicle may be stopped in anticipation of a train crossing. Ultimately, when approaching a railroad crossing, drivers must reduce their speed and be prepared to stop as required by law. They must be aware of pedestrians and bicyclists and must yield to them when necessary. Furthermore, they must always be aware of trains that may be approaching the crossing.

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