Definition
A level crossing is the at-grade intersection between a road or path and a railway line. It may be protected (with barriers and lights) or unprotected (only marked by the Saint Andrew's cross sign). Trains always have absolute priority.
Key facts
- Trains always have absolute priority over any other vehicle.
- Stopping, reversing or overtaking on the crossing is forbidden.
- If barriers close or the warning sounds, do not start crossing.
- If the vehicle stalls on the crossing, evacuate it and alert emergency services.
Practice real questions on this topic
Free DGT 2026 test with exam-style questions and explanations. No signup.
More glossary terms
- Reflector (catadioptric)— Passive reflective device that bounces incoming light back t…
- Conventional road— Interurban road that is not a motorway, dual carriageway or …
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS)— Electronic device that prevents the wheels from locking up d…
- Reversible lane— Lane whose direction of travel can change according to time …
- Safe following distance— Gap a driver must keep from the vehicle in front to stop wit…
- Blood alcohol limit— Concentration of alcohol in blood or exhaled air, expressed …
- Blind spot— Area around a vehicle that the driver cannot see using the m…
- Adaptive lights— Headlight system that adapts beam shape or intensity to road…