Which lights should be activated when approaching a railroad crossing?

When approaching a railroad crossing, activating hazard lights is crucial as it serves as an alert to other drivers and pedestrians that you are slowing down or stopping. Hazard lights, also known as emergency flashers, indicate that your vehicle may be in a situation requiring extra caution, especially near railroad crossings where trains may not be immediately visible. It enhances your visibility to others, ensuring that they are aware of your presence and actions.

While signal lights can indicate a turn or lane change, and brake lights indicate a stop, they do not communicate the same level of caution required when approaching a potentially dangerous situation such as a railroad crossing. High beam lights are primarily used for nighttime visibility, but they don't serve the same purpose in signaling safety at crossings. Thus, hazard lights are the most appropriate and recognized way to communicate caution when nearing a railroad crossing.