Nova Scotia Driving Test Practice: Ace your driving test

What should you do at a railway crossing with no posted signals?

1. Proceed without stopping

2. Stop and look both ways before crossing

3. Honk your horn before crossing

4. Only stop if you see a train coming

The correct answer is: Stop and look both ways before crossing

At a railway crossing with no posted signals, the best practice is to stop and look both ways before crossing. This is correct because it ensures your safety and the safety of others. By stopping, you allow yourself enough time to observe the tracks for any approaching trains, which may not always be visible from a distance. Railways are often quiet, making it difficult to hear an oncoming train, so taking an extra moment at an unregulated crossing is crucial. This approach also aligns with general defensive driving principles, emphasizing the importance of being vigilant in potentially hazardous situations. Proceeding without stopping could lead to a tragic accident if a train is approaching that you cannot see. Honking your horn or only stopping if you see a train may not provide adequate safety measures since trains can arrive unexpectedly, and the sound of a horn may not be noticed in time. Taking proactive steps to ensure the tracks are clear is the safest course of action.