Massachusetts has 1,100 miles of railroad lines with 1,192 public crossings and 538 private crossings. This is the equivalent of approximately two crossings per mile, which is similar to other states in the nation. We are fortunate to have very few casualties associated with crossings. However, we do have a high number of trespasser fatalities based on the number of rail miles in the Commonwealth.

Massachusetts has all types of railroad environments including high-speed rail, commuter rail, heavy haul freight, and short line operations. We now have higher speed trains as Amtrak has improved the Northeast Corridor for electric traction and Acela service.

Because we have the distinction of being the fourth highest trespasser fatality rate based on rail mileage, we have pledged to provide enhanced focus on this problem. While the trespass problem is an issue nationally, it is of particular importance in the Commonwealth as the rail industry continues to grow in importance.

Railroad Grade Crossings

When approaching a railroad crossing you must stop within 50 ft. to 15 ft. if there is a posted STOP sign, the electric signal is flashing or the crossing gate is lowered. You also must stop if a flag-person issues a signal to stop or a train is approaching and/or gives a warning. If a railroad grade crossing has no warning devices, slow down, look and listen for a train before proceeding.

Vehicles that must stop at almost all railroad crossings are second division vehicles carrying people for hire, school buses, and vehicles carrying hazardous material.

The driver must look and listen in both directions.

Never try to beat a train across the tracks. Never start to cross the tracks until there is room for your vehicle on the other side of the tracks.

To avoid stalling, a driver should not change gears while crossing the track.

Railroad crossings are marked with one or more of the following special warning devices:

THE ROUND RAILWAY WARNING SIGN: It is yellow with a black X and the letters RR. It means a highway-railway crossing is ahead and is placed 750 ft. before the track.

PAVEMENT MARKINGS: In front of railroad crossings, the pavement may be marked with a large X and two R's. A yellow line in advance of the crossing means no passing. White lines on each side of the track show motorists where to stop when a train is approaching.

RAILROAD CROSSBUCK SIGN: Most crossings have a railroad sign. If it has more than one track, the number of tracks is on the sign below the crossbuck.

FLASHING LIGHT SIGNALS: When lights begin to flash, you must always stop until it is safe to proceed.

GATES: When gates are being lowered the red flashing lights will warn you to stop.
Remain stopped until the gates are raised and lights are no longer flashing.

Some other RR warning signs drivers might see: