Illinois CDL Practice Exam

What should you do when approaching a railroad crossing without a signal?

1. Speed up to cross quickly

2. Look both ways, and if clear, proceed with caution

3. Wait for a train to pass

4. Call for assistance before crossing

The correct answer is: Look both ways, and if clear, proceed with caution

When approaching a railroad crossing without a signal, it's crucial to prioritize safety. Looking both ways allows you to check for any oncoming trains before proceeding. This method involves scanning the tracks for any signs of a train, such as sound or visual cues, which helps ensure that the crossing is clear. Proceeding with caution after confirming the tracks are clear is essential because trains can approach quickly and silently, making it easy to overlook them if you don't actively check. In contrast, speeding up to cross quickly can lead to dangerous situations if a train is approaching. Waiting for a train to pass would be unnecessary if there is no train in sight, and calling for assistance before crossing is impractical and could cause delays when immediate action is needed to ensure safety. Thus, the recommended approach emphasizes attentiveness and caution at railroad crossings, which is critical for preventing accidents.