When approaching a railway crossing with no active signals, what should you do?

When approaching a railway crossing with no active signals, looking both ways and proceeding with caution is crucial for ensuring safety. This action allows you to visually confirm that no trains are approaching from either direction before crossing the tracks. It's important to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, as trains can come very quickly and may not be audible until they are very close.

The emphasis on caution is essential because railway crossings can sometimes be misleading, with some areas lacking proper signage or visibility. By taking the time to observe the surroundings and ensure the tracks are clear, you reduce the risk of an accident and make a responsible choice as a driver.

While speeding up to clear the crossing may seem like a quick solution, it actually increases the risk of encountering a train, especially if one happens to be approaching unexpectedly. Stopping and waiting for signals is unnecessary when there are no active signals; doing so might obstruct other traffic unnecessarily. Additionally, signaling other drivers to stop is not a required action at an unregulated crossing, as each driver is responsible for making their own decisions based on their observations.