Safety > Motorists and pedestrians > Rail crossings >

Rail crossing rules for motorcycles, buses and trucks

Motorcycles

• Motorcycles must follow all the safety rules that apply to other motor vehicles.
• In addition, motorcycle riders must be alert for the possibility of a rough crossing.
• Always cross the tracks at as nearly a 90-degree angle as possible.

School and commercial buses

• Buses must stop for rail crossings.
• The driver is required to look and listen for trains approaching from either direction and to cross only when it is clearly safe to do so.
• In addition, before crossing the tracks, bus drivers must make certain there is enough space on the far side to allow them to completely cross the tracks if traffic requires the bus to stop.

Trucks carrying hazardous materials

• State and federal regulations require trucks carrying hazardous materials to stop at all highway-rail grade crossings.
• Stop gradually to avoid being rear-ended.
• Don't shift gears while crossing the tracks.

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Questions about the content of this page:
James Tracey, james.tracey@dot.state.wi.us
Last modified: January 26, 2007