what vehicles must stop at all railroad crossings

Certain commercial vehicles must stop at railroad crossings, especially buses carrying passengers and vehicles carrying hazardous materials like flammables, poisons, or explosives. Federal rules also require cargo tank vehicles and some placarded hazmat vehicles to stop before crossing, unless a listed exception applies.

Vehicles that must stop

• Every bus transporting passengers.

• Vehicles carrying hazardous materials that require placarding.

• Cargo tank motor vehicles, loaded or empty, used for hazardous materials.

• Cargo tank vehicles carrying hot cargo above its flashpoint.

• Cargo tank vehicles moving hazmat under certain exemptions.

Common exceptions

A stop is not required at some crossings, such as those controlled by a police officer or flagman, certain signal-controlled crossings, abandoned crossings, or crossings marked “Exempt” under the rule.

Simple takeaway

For everyday drivers, the rule is usually not “all vehicles,” but specific buses and hazmat-carrying commercial vehicles. Some state laws can be broader at certain marked crossings, so the exact rule depends on the road and sign posted.