Virginia Railroad Crossing Laws: Rules, Signs, and Fines Drivers Should Know

Why Railroad Crossings Matter More Than You Think

Virginia has more than 2,000 public railroad crossings, from busy commuter lines in Northern Virginia to freight tracks in the Shenandoah Valley. While train collisions are rare, they are catastrophic when they happen—a freight train traveling at 55 mph needs more than a mile to stop. That is why Virginia traffic laws around crossings are strict, and the demerit points for violations are some of the highest in the state's point system.

Virginia's Core Railroad Crossing Rules

Under Virginia Code § 46.2-885 through § 46.2-887, every driver must:

• Slow down when approaching a railroad crossing.

• Stop between 15 and 50 feet from the nearest rail when a train is approaching, lights are flashing, gates are lowering, or a flagger signals.

• Never drive around lowered gates—it is illegal and deadly.

• Wait until gates are fully raised and signals stop before crossing.

• Never stop on the tracks, even in heavy traffic. If the crossing is blocked ahead, wait behind it until you have room to clear the rails completely.

According to Operation Lifesaver, a vehicle is struck by a train somewhere in the United States every three hours—and nearly half of those crashes happen at crossings with active warning devices.

Who Must Always Stop at Virginia Railroad Crossings?

Some vehicles must stop at every crossing, even when no train is in sight. Under § 46.2-888, this group includes:

• School buses (with or without children).

• Commercial vehicles carrying hazardous materials.

• Buses carrying passengers for hire.

If you hold a CDL, refresh your knowledge of these rules through the Virginia DMV at dmv.virginia.gov. Although ABC Driving Improvement does not offer CDL training, endorsements, or skills testing, our 8-hour course is still a great way for CDL holders to earn +5 safe driving points on a personal MVR—a record many trucking employers review carefully when hiring.

Railroad Crossing Signs and What They Mean

Crossbuck signs

The familiar white X-shaped sign that reads "RAILROAD CROSSING" is a yield sign by law. If a train is approaching, you must stop.

Round yellow advance warning

The yellow circle with an "X" and the letters "RR" tells you a crossing is ahead—usually 200 to 500 feet away. Slow down and prepare to stop.

Pavement markings

White "X" and "RR" markings on the road repeat the warning so you can see it even if a sign is obscured.

Flashing red lights and gates

These mean a train is coming. Always stop—never try to beat the train.

Penalties for Railroad Crossing Violations in Virginia

The fines and demerit points add up fast:

• Failure to stop or yield at a crossing: up to $250 fine and 4 demerit points.

• Driving around or under lowered gates: up to $500 fine, 4 demerit points, and possible reckless driving charge.

• School bus or hazmat driver violation: heavier fines and possible CDL suspension.

Four points on your Virginia driving record stay there for three years and can affect your insurance, your employment, and—at high totals—your license itself. Completing a DMV-approved driver improvement course earns +5 safe driving points and can offset demerit points already on your record.

Smart Habits at Every Crossing

• Listen. Roll your window down briefly so you can hear horns and bells.

• Look both ways twice. Trains can come from either direction at any time.

• Don't shift gears on the tracks. Stalling at a crossing is exactly the kind of mistake that turns into a tragedy.

• If your car stalls on the tracks, get everyone out immediately and walk toward the train at a 45-degree angle to avoid debris.

• Call the blue ENS sign number. Each crossing has an Emergency Notification System sign with a phone number—use it to alert the railroad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are railroad crossing tickets considered moving violations in Virginia?

Yes. They are moving violations that add demerit points and stay on your record for three years. Insurance carriers commonly raise rates after one.

Can I take a driver improvement course to remove railroad crossing points?

Yes. Voluntarily completing the 8-hour course earns +5 safe driving points, which Virginia uses to offset demerit points. It is also accepted by many courts to reduce or dismiss charges. See our court-ordered course guide for details.

Do I have to stop at every railroad crossing?

Most drivers only need to stop when signals indicate a train is coming. School buses, hazmat carriers, and commercial passenger buses must stop at every crossing.

Take the Course That Keeps Your Record Clean

Railroad crossings demand respect—and so does your driving record. Whether you have just received a citation or simply want to brush up on Virginia traffic laws, our $74.99 DMV-approved 8-hour driver improvement course is the fastest, friendliest way to add 5 safe driving points and put a recent ticket behind you. Get started today.