Week 2 Grade Crossing

Explanation
Trains moving over public crossings and 20 mph or more are required to have 2 auxiliary lights (ditch lights) in addition to a headlight.

Explanation
Locomotives are found in the front of a train.

Explanation
The correct answer is "cut-off." In the context of the question, the phrase "locomotive emergency fuel cut-off buttons" suggests that these buttons are used to stop the flow of fuel in case of an emergency. They are typically found inside the locomotive cab and on each side of the locomotive for easy access.

Explanation
In an emergency situation, it is important to signal an approaching train to prevent any accidents. The best way to do this is by standing clear of the tracks and waving a flare, light, or brightly colored object horizontally, at a right angle to the track. Flares are particularly effective as they emit a bright and visible light, alerting the train driver to the potential danger ahead. By using flares, the signal can be easily noticed and understood, increasing the chances of the train stopping in time to avoid any mishaps.

Explanation
State statutes require certain vehicles to stop at all railroad crossings, even if a train is not visible. This is because it is crucial to ensure the safety of all road users. Even if a train is not immediately visible, there could still be a train approaching or crossing the intersection. Stopping at all railroad crossings helps prevent accidents and allows time for any unseen trains to pass safely. Therefore, it is important for drivers to adhere to this requirement as mandated by state statutes.

Explanation
The train is not considered a motor vehicle because even if the main power source fails, active control devices at a grade crossing will continue to operate temporarily with backup battery power. This implies that the train does not rely on its own motor for operation, unlike a motor vehicle which requires a functioning engine to operate.

Explanation
If a vehicle becomes stuck on the railroad tracks or strikes the rail, it is important to immediately notify the railroad. This is because the railroad is responsible for the operation and safety of the tracks, and they need to be informed of any potential hazards or incidents that occur on their property. Even if there was no collision involving a train, notifying the railroad is crucial as they will be able to take appropriate action to ensure the safety of both the vehicle occupants and any approaching trains.

Explanation
A lowered crossing gate is a clear indication that a train is approaching or passing through, and it is crucial for the safety of both the vehicle operator and the train that the vehicle comes to a complete stop. Ignoring a lowered crossing gate and proceeding can lead to a potentially catastrophic accident. Therefore, it is true that in all states, a lowered crossing gate means a vehicle operator must stop and not proceed.

Explanation
After active traffic control devices are installed at a crossing, maintenance is the responsibility of the railroad. This means that once the devices are in place, it is the railroad's duty to ensure they are properly maintained and functioning correctly. This could include regular inspections, repairs, and any necessary updates or replacements. By taking on this responsibility, the railroad can help ensure the safety and efficiency of the crossing for both road and rail traffic.

Explanation
The approximate weight ratio between a train and a car is 4000 to 1. This means that the weight of a train is approximately 4000 times greater than the weight of a car.

Explanation
If the vehicle transmission selector is in park and the keys are removed from the ignition at a crossing collision, it suggests that the driver intentionally caused the collision. This could be an indication that the collision was staged for insurance fraud or that it was a suicide attempt.

Explanation
Commercial Driver License holders have additional requirements and are subject to disqualification for specific grade crossing violations. This means that if a commercial driver violates any rules or regulations related to crossing railroad tracks, such as failing to stop at a railroad crossing or disregarding warning signs, they can face disqualification from holding a commercial driver's license. This is because grade crossing violations pose a significant risk to the safety of both the driver and other road users.

Explanation
Motorists are required to stop at a grade crossing with activated flashing red lights, even if there are no crossing gates. This is a safety measure to ensure that drivers are aware of the potential presence of a train and to prevent accidents. By stopping at the crossing, motorists can assess the situation and proceed only when it is safe to do so. Therefore, the statement "motorists may not proceed across the tracks without stopping, if no train is present" is true.

Explanation
Locomotive engineers are not required to carry a motor vehicle operator license when operating a locomotive. Locomotives are not considered motor vehicles and therefore do not require the same type of license as a regular motor vehicle.

Explanation
The locomotive event recorder is a device that records various aspects of the train's operation, such as its speed, brake activity, and other functions. This device is crucial for monitoring and analyzing the performance of the train, as well as for investigating any incidents or accidents that may occur. By accurately recording these parameters, the locomotive event recorder provides valuable data that can be used for maintenance, safety improvements, and regulatory compliance. Therefore, the statement that the locomotive event recorder records the operation of the train, including speed, brake activity, and other functions, is true.

Explanation
The average stopping distance for a typical freight train traveling 55 mph is 1 mile or more. Freight trains are much heavier and larger than regular vehicles, which means they require a longer distance to come to a complete stop. Additionally, the momentum of a moving train makes it difficult to stop quickly, further contributing to the longer stopping distance. Therefore, it is necessary to have at least a mile or more of distance for a freight train to stop safely.

Explanation
If a crossbuck or active control device is missing, damaged, or inoperative, it should be reported to the railroad. The railroad is responsible for maintaining and ensuring the proper functioning of these safety devices. They have the authority and resources to address any issues and make the necessary repairs or replacements. Reporting it to the railroad ensures that they are aware of the problem and can take appropriate action to prevent any potential accidents or hazards.