Are buses required to stop at railroad crossings regardless of whether they are empty or loaded?

Buses are indeed required to stop at railroad crossings regardless of whether they are empty or loaded. This is a vital safety measure designed to protect passengers and the driver from potential accidents involving trains. The reason for this requirement stems from the inherent dangers associated with crossing train tracks—trains can approach quickly, and their large size makes them difficult to judge in terms of speed and distance.

The law mandates that all school buses stop at railroad crossings to allow the driver to observe any oncoming trains and ensure that it is safe to proceed. This practice helps prevent collisions and encourages a culture of safety among school bus drivers, reinforcing the importance of vigilance at potentially hazardous locations. Therefore, it is crucial for school bus drivers to be familiar with and adhere to this regulation to ensure the safety of the children they transport.