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How far from a railroad crossing must a Florida driver stop?

A train approaches a crossing where red lights flash and the gate arms are down while two cars wait on the road before the tracks.

The gate is lowered and red lights are flashing at a railroad crossing. Where must you stop?

Answer choices

The answer

Stop within 50 feet but not less than 15 feet from the nearest rail, and do not proceed until the tracks are clear and it is safe.

The requirement applies when a clearly visible signal warns of an approaching train, a gate is lowered or a flagger signals, a train gives an audible signal or is an immediate hazard, or a train is plainly visible and close to the crossing.

A person may not drive through, around, or under any crossing gate or barrier.

Exceptions

  • The statute page lists no exceptions to the stop requirement.

Penalty

Noncriminal traffic infraction. For a vehicle driver, a first violation is a $500 fine or 25 hours of community service plus 6 license points; a second or later violation is a $1,000 fine plus 6 more points.

Why this rule matters for safety

A train cannot stop quickly or swerve. Staying back from the rails keeps your vehicle away from the train and from gate arms.

Official sources

Rules checked against these sources on . Laws change. Confirm with the Florida agency before you rely on this for a legal matter.

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