Part 29: Railroad Crossings

Minnesota Railroad Crossing Rules: What You Need to Know

Railroad crossings are critical areas on Minnesota roadways where vigilance and adherence to safety rules can save lives. Understanding the rules and required distances for stopping, parking, and passing near railroad crossings is essential for all drivers. This blog highlights the key regulations and safety tips for navigating railroad crossings in Minnesota.

Minnesota Railroad Crossing Basics

Railroad crossings are marked intersections where a roadway and railway meet. These crossings can include signals, gates, warning lights, or be marked only by a crossbuck sign. Regardless of the type, every railroad crossing requires caution.

Stopping Rules at Railroad Crossings

Minnesota law requires drivers to stop at railroad crossings under certain conditions. Here are the main rules:

  • Mandatory Stop: Drivers must stop within 50 feet but not less than 10 feet from the nearest rail when:
    • A clearly visible electric or mechanical signal warns of an approaching train.
    • A crossing gate is lowered, or a flag person signals the approach of a train.
    • A train is visibly approaching and close enough to constitute a hazard.
  • School Buses and Commercial Vehicles: These vehicles must always stop at railroad crossings, even if no train is in sight, unless the crossing is marked as exempt.

Parking Near Railroad Crossings

Parking too close to a railroad crossing creates dangerous obstructions and is strictly prohibited. In Minnesota:

  • Vehicles must not park within 50 feet of the nearest rail at a railroad crossing.

Passing at Railroad Crossings

Passing another vehicle near or at a railroad crossing is illegal and highly dangerous. Drivers should:

  • Never pass another vehicle within 100 feet of a railroad crossing.
  • Wait until they have completely cleared the crossing and can see the road ahead before attempting to pass another vehicle.

Railroad Crossing Safety Tips

  1. Always Obey Warning Devices: Flashing lights, gates, and bells indicate an approaching train. Never attempt to drive around lowered gates.
  2. Stop, Look, and Listen: Even if there are no signals, look both ways for an approaching train before crossing.
  3. Never Race a Train: Trains appear slower than they are and cannot stop quickly. Always wait for the train to pass.
  4. Clear the Tracks: Ensure there is enough room to completely cross the tracks without stopping. Never stop on the tracks.
  5. Avoid Distractions: Put away phones and other distractions while approaching a railroad crossing.

What to Do If Stuck on the Tracks

If your vehicle stalls or gets stuck on the tracks:

  1. Exit Immediately: Get everyone out of the vehicle and move away from the tracks.
  2. Locate the Emergency Notification System (ENS) Sign: These signs are posted near the crossing and provide a phone number and crossing location number to report emergencies.
  3. Call 911: If you cannot locate the ENS sign, call 911 and report the situation.

Penalties for Violating Railroad Crossing Rules

Failure to follow railroad crossing rules can result in fines, points on your driving record, or even loss of driving privileges. More importantly, violations can lead to serious accidents and fatalities.

Conclusion

Railroad crossings require every driver’s utmost attention and respect for the law. By following Minnesota’s rules for stopping, parking, and passing near crossings, as well as practicing general safety tips, you can help prevent accidents and ensure a safer driving experience for everyone. Always remember—trains can’t stop quickly, but you can.