Railroads

Arizona law requires drivers of any vehicles approaching a highway-rail crossing to stop within fifty but not less than fifteen feet of the nearest rail of the tracks and to remain stopped until movement over the crossing may be accomplished safely. The requirements apply in the following situations:

1) Where a clearly visible electrical or mechanical signal device gives warning of the approach of a train.
2) Where a crossing gate is lowered or when a flagman is giving a signal of the approach of a train.
3) When a train approaching within fifteen hundred feet of the crossing emits a signal audible from that distance and, due to its speed or nearness to the crossing, constitutes an Immediatee hazard.
4) Where an approaching train is plainly visible.

Arizona law prohibits motorists from driving through, around or under any crossing gate or barrier while the gate or barrier is closed or being opened or closed. Ariz. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 28-851 (1999).

Arizona law requires the driver of any vehicle to stop within fifteen to fifty feet of the nearest rail of the tracks at highway-rail crossings where local government authorities have designated a grade crossing as particularly dangerous and have erected a stop sign at that crossing. Drivers may proceed only after exercising due care. Ariz. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 28-852 (1999). See also chapter on passive warning devices.

Except when necessary to avoid conflict with other traffic or in compliance with the law or the directions of a police officer or traffic control device, it is unlawful to stop, stand or park a vehicle within fifty feet of the nearest rail of a railroad crossing or within eight feet, six inches of the center of any railroad track, except while loading or unloading a train. Ariz. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 28-873 (1999).

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