How to Stay Safe at Railway Crossings as a Motorcyclist

When it comes to riding your motorcycle, safety is always the name of the game. One crucial situation that every motorcyclist needs to navigate is the railway crossing. Can you guess how far you should be stopping when there’s a train coming? Spoiler: it’s at least 5 metres away. Let’s dive into why that distance matters!

Why 5 Metres?

Imagine this: you’re cruising down the road, wind in your hair, when suddenly you spot a railway crossing ahead. You see those familiar tracks, and your heart races a bit — it’s the thrill of the ride, but safety can’t take a backseat. As you approach, keeping that 5 metres in mind allows you to assess the scene ahead clearly.

Now, why 5 metres and not less? If you stop too close, say just 1 metre from the tracks, you might find yourself in a precarious position. Picture it: you might not have enough reaction time if a train appears out of nowhere. Trains are fast and quiet, so giving yourself extra room to breathe and think can make a world of difference.

The Danger of Underestimating Distance

Say you stop at 1 metre—yikes! That close, you’re practically inviting trouble. Adjusting that distance to a safer 5 metres makes you less exposed and provides ample opportunity to see everything at the crossing. Remember, trains can approach surprisingly quickly, and the last thing you want is to put yourself in a compromising spot.

But what about those who think stopping 15 or even 50 metres away might be better? Sure, that's extra caution, but it can lead to traffic delays and create frustration for drivers behind you. Finding that sweet spot at 5 metres not only keeps you safe but helps keep traffic flowing smoothly too.

Railway Safety for Motorcyclists

Here’s the thing: safety isn’t just about the distance; it’s also about being vigilant. Always look left and right before you cross the tracks. Make sure there’s no signal indicating an incoming train — and if you see lights flashing or hear bells ringing, make your move to stop.

In some situations, visibility might be an issue. Obstructions, like trees or buildings, can make spotting an oncoming train tricky. If that’s the case, erring on the side of caution is wise; better safe than sorry, right?

Tips to Remember

• Stay Alert: Keep your eyes peeled for any signs or signals at railway crossings.
• Stopping Distance: Aim to always stop at least 5 metres from the track.
• Visibility is Key: If you can’t see the train clearly, don’t approach!

Wrapping It Up

So, whether you’re gearing up for your Ontario M1 motorcycle license test or just looking to sharpen those safe riding skills, always keep that 5-metre rule close to your heart (and handlebars). Riding a motorcycle can be liberating and exhilarating, but it also comes with responsibilities—one of them being aware of railway safety. Remember, it's all about maintaining that balance between enjoying the road and diving deep into safe riding practices out there. Happy riding!