Railroad crossings Stop at least 15 feet from the rail
When the red lights flash, the gate comes down or a train is coming, stop at least 15 feet from the nearest rail. Wait until the red lights stop flashing, even if the gate rises. Never stop on the tracks: cross only when there is room for your whole car on the far side.
CVC 22451(a), (b) · CVC 22526(d) · CVC 22352(a)(1) · CA Driver's Handbook, "Near Railroad or Light Rail Tracks"
How far from railroad tracks do you stop in California?
At least 15 feet from the nearest rail, when a signal warns or a train is near (CVC 22451(a)). Never stop on the tracks.
Why this rule exists
A train cannot swerve and cannot stop for you. Fifteen feet keeps you clear of it, and a second train may come on another track.
Step by step on the road
- At the round yellow railroad warning sign, slow down, look both ways along the tracks and listen.
- When the red lights flash, the gate comes down or a train is near, stop at the limit line, at least 15 feet from the nearest rail.
- Never drive through, around or under a closed gate.
- Wait until the red lights stop flashing, even if the gate rises. A second train may come on another track.
- Before you start, look at the far side: cross only if there is room for your whole car past the tracks.
- Cross in one go, without stopping on the tracks.
Common mistakes
- Driving on as soon as the gate rises while the red lights still flash.
- Following a line of traffic onto the tracks and stopping there.
- Stopping closer than 15 feet to the rail.
- Expecting a train from only one side: a train can come on any track, at any time, in either direction.
Questions people ask
Can you go when the railroad gate goes up but the lights are still flashing?
No. The Handbook says do not cross the tracks until the red lights stop flashing, even if the gate rises.
What is the speed limit near a railroad crossing in California?
15 mph within 100 feet of a crossing where you cannot see the tracks for 400 feet in both directions, unless gates, a warning signal or a flagman control it (CVC 22352(a)(1)).
Is it illegal to drive around a lowered railroad gate?
Yes. CVC 22451(b): no driver may go through, around or under a crossing gate while it is closed.
Test yourself
Kees' three questions on this rule, the “Did you know?” facts and his tip come with the drive, in Voorrah! Pro.
Get Voorrah! Pro ▸