Railroad Crossing Sign
The railroad crossing advance warning sign is a round yellow sign with a black "X" and the letters "RR." It's the only circular warning sign used on US roads, making it instantly recognizable. This sign is posted several hundred feet before a railroad crossing to give drivers time to prepare. It means you're approaching a point where railroad tracks cross the road. When you see this sign, slow down, look and listen for trains in both directions, and be ready to stop. Railroad crossings may also have crossbuck signs, flashing lights, gates, or pavement markings. Even at crossings with no gates or lights, you must look both ways before crossing the tracks. Trains are deceptively fast and quiet — a train moving at 55 mph can take over a mile to stop, so the train cannot stop for you. Never stop on the railroad tracks, never try to beat a train, and never go around lowered gates. Approximately every three hours, a person or vehicle is hit by a train in the United States, making railroad crossing awareness critical for driver safety.
Rules & What to Do
Slow down when you see the advance warning sign. Look both ways and listen for trains before crossing. Stop at least 15 feet from the nearest rail if a train is approaching, lights are flashing, or gates are lowered. Never stop your vehicle on the tracks.
Penalties
Failing to stop for a train or going around lowered railroad crossing gates carries fines of $200-$500+ in most states and adds 3-6 points to your driving record. Some states impose mandatory license suspension for railroad crossing violations.
For Commercial Drivers
Federal law requires certain commercial vehicles to stop at all railroad crossings, regardless of whether a train is visible. This includes buses carrying passengers, vehicles carrying hazardous materials, and cargo tank vehicles. Stop between 15 and 50 feet from the nearest rail, look and listen in both directions, and proceed only when it's safe. Never shift gears while crossing the tracks. A railroad crossing violation can result in CDL disqualification for 60 days on first offense, 120 days on second.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the round yellow railroad crossing sign mean?
The round yellow sign with a black X and RR is an advance warning that a railroad crossing is ahead. It gives you time to slow down and prepare to look for trains before reaching the tracks.
How far should you stop from railroad tracks?
You should stop at least 15 feet from the nearest rail when a train is approaching or signals are active. CDL drivers must stop between 15 and 50 feet from the nearest rail.
What shape is a railroad crossing sign?
The advance railroad crossing warning sign is circular (round) — it's the only round warning sign used on US roads. The crossbuck sign at the crossing itself is X-shaped.