Illinois CDL Practice Exam

What should you do if your vehicle stalls on the tracks at a railroad crossing?

1. Attempt to restart the vehicle

2. Stay inside the vehicle

3. Get out of the vehicle and move to a safe location

4. Call for assistance while inside

The correct answer is: Get out of the vehicle and move to a safe location

If your vehicle stalls on the tracks at a railroad crossing, moving to a safe location is the crucial action to take. This option emphasizes personal safety and the need to remove yourself from potential danger. Trains can approach very quickly, and being in or near a stalled vehicle on the tracks puts you at significant risk of an accident. Getting out of the vehicle allows you to distance yourself from the potential collision and find a safe place, typically at a safe distance away from the tracks. Once you are in a safe location, you can assess the situation and call for assistance if necessary. Taking prompt action not only protects your safety but also the safety of any passengers you may have. Attempting to restart the vehicle could waste precious time, especially if a train is approaching. Staying inside the vehicle, given the imminent risk of a train, would be unsafe. Calling for assistance while still inside would distract you from the more urgent need to evacuate the vehicle and get to safety. Prioritizing safety in this scenario is paramount and underscores the correct approach to take.