CVC 22451: Stopping at Railroad Crossings.

California Vehicle Code (CVC) Section 22451 addresses the requirements for stopping at railroad crossings when warning signals are activated. This law is in place to ensure the safety of drivers and pedestrians when trains are approaching or passing through intersections with railroad tracks. Here's an explanation of CVC 22451:

CVC 22451 - Stopping at Railroad Crossings:

1. General Requirement (Subsection (a)):

   • Subsection (a) of CVC 22451 establishes the general rule that every driver of a vehicle must stop their vehicle not less than 15 feet but no more than 50 feet from the nearest rail of a railroad track when:
     • The flashing red lights and bells at a railroad crossing are activated, indicating an approaching train.
     • The crossing gates are lowered or being lowered.
     • A human flagger gives a signal indicating the approach or passage of a train.
     • A train is approaching closely enough or is clearly visible and an audible signal or a train horn is sounded.

2. Waiting Until It's Safe to Proceed (Subsection (b)):

   • Subsection (b) emphasizes that drivers must not proceed across the railroad tracks until it's safe to do so, even after stopping as required in Subsection (a). This means waiting until the signals have stopped flashing, the gates have been raised, and it's clear of approaching trains.

3. Exceptions (Subsection (c)):

   • Subsection (c) provides exceptions to the requirement to stop at a railroad crossing when certain conditions exist. These exceptions include situations where a peace officer directs traffic to proceed or when the crossing signals malfunction, and it's safe to cross.

4. Penalties for Violation (Subsection (d)):

   • Violating CVC 22451 by failing to stop at a railroad crossing when required or proceeding when it's not safe to do so can result in traffic citations, fines, and potential points on your driver's license, depending on the extent of the violation.