At what distance should you stop before a railroad crossing?

The correct distance to stop before a railroad crossing is between 15 to 50 feet. This range is established to ensure that drivers give themselves ample time to observe any oncoming trains and assess the safety of crossing the tracks. Stopping within this distance allows bus drivers to maintain a clear view of the tracks and the surrounding area, which is particularly important when operating a school bus full of children.

This stopping distance also helps to comply with safety regulations and reduces the risk of collisions with trains, which can have devastating consequences. It is essential for drivers of large vehicles, like school buses, to have a longer stopping distance compared to regular vehicles due to their size and weight. Ensuring the bus remains at least 15 feet away from the crossing aids in achieving a proper line of sight and keeping the passengers safe.

Other distances provided in the options fall outside of the recommended guidelines for school buses and may not prioritize the safety considerations needed for such a vehicle when approaching a potentially hazardous area like a railroad crossing.