Final answer:
You must stop between 15 and 50 feet from railroad tracks at a crossing when a train is coming, which is approximately 1 to 3 car-lengths. Standing too close is dangerous due to atmospheric pressure changes that can pull you towards a moving train.
Step-by-step explanation:
When approaching a railroad crossing with an oncoming train, you must stop your vehicle between 15 and 50 feet from the railroad tracks. This safety regulation ensures that in case of an emergency, there is enough space to prevent your vehicle from being within the danger zone. The exact distance may vary by jurisdiction but typically falls within this range.
As for the distance you should keep from the tracks, considering the length of a car averages about 15 feet, stopping 1 to 3 car-lengths away is a good rule of thumb to maintain a safe distance. This practice ensures that if a train is coming, you and your vehicle are safely outside the potential path of the train.
It is important to note that standing close to railroad tracks when a high-speed train passes by is dangerous due to the phenomenon of atmospheric pressure changes. As the train moves rapidly, it displaces air, creating a low-pressure area adjacent to its passage. This differential in pressure can cause an individual standing too close to be pulled towards the train, potentially leading to injury or death.