Glossary

Warning devices refer to signs, signals, markings, and devices placed along highways approaching and at railroad/highway crossings on, over or adjacent to a street or highway used to direct and assist vehicle operators and pedestrians in crossing the rail line safely.

Active Warning Devices:

Bell - A device which, when activated, provides an audible warning for pedestrians and bicyclists, which may be used with a flashing light signal.
Cantilever - A structure, which may have flashing light signals, extending over one or more lanes of vehicular traffic.
Flashing Red Light Signal - A device installed on a standard mast or cantilever which, when activated, displays red lights flashing alternately. It indicates the approach of a train and requires a complete stop by the highway user.
Gate - An extended arm that lowers to restrict vehicular and pedestrian traffic from crossing the railroad tracks.
2. Passive Warning Devices:

"Advance Warning" Sign - A round yellow warning sign with a black "X" and "R-R", located alongside the highway in advance of the crossing. It advises the motor vehicle operator of a crossing ahead. It means, "slow down, look, listen, and be prepared to stop if a train is approaching."
Crossbuck - A white regulatory, X-shaped sign with the words, "Railroad Crossing" in black lettering, located alongside the highway at the railroad tracks. This sign is considered the same as a "Yield Sign". All motor vehicles should "Yield" to trains. At multiple track crossings, a sign indicating the number of tracks will be on the post below the crossbuck.
"Do Not Stop On Tracks" Sign - A black and white regulatory sign placed at a crossing when an engineering study or experience determines there is a high potential for vehicles stopping on the tracks.
"Exempt" Sign - A sign placed in advance and at a crossing authorized by law or regulation to inform placarded hazardous materials vehicles, buses and other highway users that a stop is not required, except when a signal, train crew member or a uniformed police officer indicates that a train, locomotive, or other railroad equipment is approaching the crossing.
"Parallel Track" Sign - A diamond-shaped yellow advance warning sign located on roadways parallel to the railroad track, indicating the road ahead will cross the tracks. The purpose of these signs is to warn motorists making a turn that there is a highway-rail grade crossing immediately after the turn.
Pavement Markings - The white lines and letters ("R X R") set into the surface of, or applied to or attached to, the pavement in advance of the crossing which is for the purpose of advising, warning or guiding traffic.
Stop Sign - A red regulatory stop sign with white lettering intended for use where motor vehicle traffic is required to stop. This sign may be added to the crossing, requiring all vehicles to come to a complete stop before crossing the railroad tracks.
"Tracks Out Of Service" Sign - A sign for use at a crossing in lieu of the crossbuck when a railroad track has been abandoned or its use discontinued.
Yield Sign - The yield sign assigns right-of-way. Vehicles controlled by a yield sign need to avoid interference with other vehicles, including trains, which are given the right-of-way.

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