Level Crossing

Correct Behavior at a Level Crossing

A level crossing is a place where a road and a railway cross each other.
There is a very high risk of accidents because trains cannot swerve, cannot brake quickly, and always have priority.
For this reason, very strict rules apply.

Basic Rule (Very Important for the Driving Test)

Rail vehicles ALWAYS have priority.

At level crossings, special caution is required even if nothing is flashing or moving.

Approaching a Level Crossing

As soon as you see an Andreaskreuz (crossbuck sign) or warning sign:

  • Reduce speed significantly
  • Look carefully to the left and right
  • Be ready to brake
  • Stay calm – do not accelerate

Even if you cannot see or hear a train:
A train can appear very suddenly and very fast.

Meaning of the Andreaskreuz (Crossbuck)

The Andreaskreuz means:

  • You must give priority to rail traffic
  • It applies even without barriers or traffic lights

Overtaking is prohibited when:

  • You have to wait
  • A train is approaching
  • The red flashing lights are active

Rule to remember:
“Andreaskreuz = train first, always.”

Behavior When Red Flashing Lights Are On

When red flashing lights are activated:

  • STOP IMMEDIATELY
  • Stop before the stop line, the Andreaskreuz, or at a safe distance
  • Do not continue driving, even if no train is visible

Forbidden:

  • Driving on
  • “Quickly crossing before the train”
  • Accelerating

Red flashing lights = absolute stop.

Behavior at Barriers

If the barrier is lowering or closed:

  • Stop
  • Do not drive under the barrier
  • Do not drive around the barrier
  • Do not honk or push other drivers

If you are already on the crossing and the barrier starts to lower:

  • Drive forward immediately
  • The barrier may be broken in an emergency
  • Your safety comes first

Multiple Tracks – Especially Dangerous

When one train has passed:

  • Do not drive off immediately
  • Look, listen, and check carefully for another train

Trains can come from both directions.

Test trap:
Many accidents happen because a second train is overlooked.

Driving Over the Level Crossing

You may continue driving only if:

  • No red flashing lights are on
  • The barriers are fully open
  • No train can be seen or heard
  • The crossing is clear and can be crossed completely

Never stop on a level crossing!

Traffic Jam or Slow-Moving Traffic

Very important:

Never drive onto a level crossing
unless you are sure you can cross it completely.

Even if:

  • Other drivers are honking
  • You had a green light
  • You are under time pressure

A level crossing is not a waiting area.

Behavior in Fog, Darkness, or Rain

  • Drive even more slowly
  • Open the window briefly if necessary to hear better
  • Be extra alert
  • Train lights can be misleading → brake early

Common Mistakes (Classic Test Failures)

  • “I can still make it”
  • Not checking both directions
  • Driving off immediately after the first train
  • Ignoring barriers
  • Stopping on the crossing

These mistakes almost always lead to failing the test.

Test Reminder (Very Important!)

“See – Hear – Think – Act.
Train approaching = Stop.
No train = Proceed carefully.”