What is the recommended action if you find yourself near a railroad crossing?

When you approach a railroad crossing, the recommended action is to slow down and look for several important reasons. First, reducing your speed allows you to have better control of your vehicle, making it easier to stop safely if needed. By looking both ways, you can check for an oncoming train, which could be concealed by brush, trees, or other obstacles.

Taking this cautious approach maximizes your awareness of any potential hazards. It's important to also note that if you are approaching a marked railroad crossing, signs and signals might indicate if it's safe to cross or if a train is approaching, so being attentive is crucial.

While coming to a complete stop is a safe practice at some crossings, it is not always necessary unless required by specific signals. Turning around may not be practical or possible depending on the layout of the area, and accelerating across the tracks is extremely dangerous and can lead to a serious accident. Thus, slowing down and looking helps ensure your safety by allowing you to assess the situation effectively.