How should you approach a train crossing?

When approaching a train crossing, it is crucial to slow down, look both ways, and be prepared to stop. This practice ensures the driver's safety and that of any passengers and pedestrians.

Train crossings can be unpredictable, and trains often travel much faster than they appear. By slowing down, drivers give themselves more time to assess the situation and react appropriately. Looking both ways helps to ensure that no train is approaching from either direction, as trains can come from either side and might be difficult to see due to their speed or obstacles in the environment. Being prepared to stop is about readiness; even if no train is seen at the moment, it is essential to be alert as trains can sometimes approach unexpectedly.

This approach emphasizes the importance of caution and awareness when dealing with train crossings, where the consequences of misjudgment can be severe. The other choices do not align with safe practices for interacting with train crossings. For instance, speeding up can lead to dangerous situations where drivers might not reach the crossing in time to avoid a train, and stopping only if a train is visible ignores the possibility of an unseen train. Proceeding without stopping under any circumstances disregards the potential for hidden dangers.