When approaching a railway crossing, one should always?

When approaching a railway crossing, it is essential to stop and look both ways. This practice ensures that drivers are fully aware of their surroundings and can assess whether it is safe to cross the tracks. Railways are often located in areas where visibility can be limited, and train speeds can be quite fast, making it crucial to verify that there are no trains approaching before proceeding.

Looking both ways allows drivers to check for trains from either direction, safeguarding against the potentially severe consequences of a collision. Additionally, stopping not only helps to avoid accidents but also provides a moment to listen for any sounds of an oncoming train, which can sometimes be more effective than relying solely on visual cues.

Other actions, such as speeding up to cross quickly, may lead to dangerous situations, as trains may be closer than they appear, and this approach does not give the driver adequate time to react if a train is coming. Continuing to drive without stopping is equally unsafe, as it disregards the crucial need to check for trains. Thus, making a complete stop and looking both ways is the best and safest strategy when approaching a railway crossing.