What Should You Do When Approaching a Railway Crossing as a Bus Driver?

What’s the Deal with Railway Crossings?

If you're a bus driver, you know that navigating roadways is just part of the job. But when it comes to railway crossings, it’s a whole different ballgame. You gotta be alert, right? It’s not just about following rules; it’s about keeping your passengers safe and making good decisions.

So, What Should You Do?

When you approach a railway crossing, the best course of action isn’t rocket science. You should slow down, look, and listen for trains. This might sound simple, but trust me, it’s super crucial for everyone’s safety – your passengers, other motorists, and even the folks on the train.

Why Slow Down?

Here’s the thing: if you zoom towards a crossing, you’re putting everyone at risk, including yourself. By slowing down, you give yourself a few extra seconds to assess what's happening. Can you see far down the tracks? Is there a train approaching? Those moments matter. If warning signals are present, or if there’s a stop sign, stopping is not just a good idea; it’s the law.

Look Both Ways

Yes, this may feel like crossing guard duty back in elementary school, but it’s legit! Looking in both directions is key. Just because you don’t hear a train doesn’t mean one isn’t approaching at full speed. Those trains can be sneaky. And that’s not even considering the fact that sometimes trees or buildings can obstruct your view.

Listen for the Whistle

Now, don’t just focus on visuals. Listening is part of the deal too! You can’t rely solely on what you see. Trains often sound their horns long before they reach crossings. So, crank up those ears and listen for any signs of imminent danger.

What If You Speed Up?

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: what happens if you decide to speed up instead? Well, let’s just say that’s a big no-no. If you try to race to beat the train, you’re flirting with disaster. That extra speed leaves you less time to react if a train suddenly appears. Plus, it’s likely to confuse other road users. Think about it – are they supposed to guess if you’ll stop or not?

Ignoring Warning Signals

Ignoring those warning signals is a gamble you don’t want to take. They’re there for a reason: to warn you of an approaching train. When you see flashing lights or hear alarms, your course should be clear. Those signals scream "STOP!" Loud and clear. If you ever find yourself at a crossing with those lights flashing, remember: don't proceed! It’s not worth the risk.

The Bottom Line

At the end of the day, when you’re at a railway crossing, make it a habit to slow down, look, and listen. Sure, there might be situations where you can go through without stopping. But isn’t that just playing with fire? The safest decision is always to take the extra precautions.

Not only does this keep your passengers safe, but it also shows that you’re a responsible driver who cares about road rules. So, whether you’re in Ontario or beyond, keep your eyes peeled and your ears open when approaching those crossings. Let’s work together to make every journey as safe as possible. Remember, safety first!