Railroad and Special Situation Signs
Railroad and Special Situation Signs
Railroad crossings and unusual conditions demand specific responses. The Guam exam checks railroad advance warnings, crossbucks, track plaques, and signs for situations such as drawbridges, deer, fog, and stalled vehicles.
Core rules
- A round yellow sign with a black “X” and “RR” warns of a railroad crossing ahead. Slow down, look, and listen; do not stop on the tracks.
- A crossbuck is a white X-shaped sign with “RAILROAD CROSSING.” It means yield to trains; a train has the right of way. If there is a STOP sign or gate, obey it.
- A plaque reading “2 TRACKS” means a second train may come from either direction after the first passes. Do not move until you can clear the crossing.
- Flashing red lights mean stop. Gates mean stop and remain stopped until the gates rise and the lights stop. Never drive around a gate.
- “DO NOT STOP ON TRACKS” marks the clear zone; stop before the tracks if traffic ahead would block you.
- Special signs include drawbridge, deer crossing, fog, falling rocks, and stalled-vehicle procedures. If your vehicle stalls on tracks, get everyone out and move away from the tracks, then call for help.
Worked example
You approach a crossbuck with a “2 TRACKS” plaque and flashing red lights. A train passes, but the lights continue flashing. You must remain stopped because a second train may approach. After the lights stop and you can see the tracks are clear in both directions, proceed without stopping on the tracks. If your car stalls on the crossing, do not stay inside; evacuate and move clear of the tracks.
Traps
A crossbuck is not a stop sign by itself, but you must yield. Flashing red lights require a full stop even if no train is visible. Do not race a train or drive around a lowered gate. Do not stop on the tracks when traffic ahead is backed up. Do not treat a “2 TRACKS” plaque as information you can ignore.