When are drivers required to stop at a railroad crossing?

Drivers are required to stop at a railroad crossing when there is a flashing red light present. This signal serves as a clear warning that a train is approaching, indicating that it is unsafe to cross the tracks at that moment. The flashing red lights are designed to alert drivers of the imminent danger posed by an oncoming train, which can often travel at high speeds and may not be able to stop quickly.

Stopping at a railroad crossing when you see flashing red lights is critical for ensuring safety, as it provides adequate time for the train to pass and for drivers to make informed decisions about crossing afterward. This rule applies regardless of other factors such as whether the crossing is guarded or unguarded, or if the driver can hear a train whistle, which may not always be audible depending on the environment or sound barriers.