Driving over a railway crossing

Railway crossings, also called level crossings, are among the most dangerous points in traffic. A train cannot stop as quickly as a car, and a collision often has fatal consequences.

Types of Level Crossings

Rules at Railway Crossings

• Always stop when the barrier is down or the light is flashing.
• At an unsecured crossing: stop, look, and listen in both directions before crossing.
• Never cross the tracks if you cannot get completely to the other side.
• It is forbidden to drive around half barriers, even if it looks clear.

Warning Signs for Railways

Warning signs for level crossings alert you in advance. Distance signs with three, two, and one line indicate 300, 200, and 100 meters to the crossing. Learn more about warnings in warning signs and warning triangle .

What to Do if Your Car Stops on the Tracks

1. Get everyone out of the car immediately.
2. Move away from the tracks at a safe distance.
3. Try to alert the train driver if possible; call 110 (emergency number for railways: Bane NOR).
4. Never attempt to move the car if a train is approaching.

Important Details

• Trains always have the right of way on the track.
• Barriers can be lowered 30 seconds or more before the train arrives; be patient.
• Multiple trains may come one after another; wait until the barrier is fully up.

Further Reading

• Warning signs and warning triangle
• Overview of prohibition signs
• Adapted speed and hidden danger
• Driving past emergency vehicles