Final answer:
At unsignaled railroad crossings, drivers must be vigilant by looking, listening, and slowing down to avoid accidents, as vehicle speeding is common. Pedestrian safety is at risk, and the incidence of accidents can be high, sometimes with tragic results.
Step-by-step explanation:
Safety Concerns at Unsignaled Railroad Crossings
When approaching a railroad crossing without any warning signals, such as electric flashing lights or gates, it is crucial for drivers to exercise caution by looking, listening, and slowing down. This caution is necessary because many vehicles speed through crossings without heeding the posted speed limits. The absence of traffic signals means drivers have the responsibility to ensure their own safety and the safety of others.
Pedestrian safety is also a major concern at these intersections. Students and others who cross near campuses are at risk as they must navigate through traffic, which could be mitigated with the installation of traffic signals allowing for safer passage. Additionally, the lack of signals can lead to a higher number of accidents, with some incidents having devastating outcomes, such as loss of life.