Final answer:
It is illegal to drive around or under lowered gates at railroad crossings, designed to prevent accidents and enforce safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
If the gates are lowered across the tracks, it is illegal to drive around or under them. This safety measure is put in place to prevent accidents and save lives. Railroad crossings are potentially dangerous touchpoints between road traffic and train traffic. By law, when the gates are lowered, it signals that a train is approaching, and drivers must stop and wait until the gates are raised before proceeding. Ignoring the gates is not only illegal but also extremely dangerous, potentially leading to severe consequences including traffic citations, fines, and serious accidents.