Flashing Red Light
The signal indicates warning at a railway crossing
When You See This Sign
When you see a red flashing light at a level crossing, you must immediately stop before the stop line or barrier and not pass over the tracks. Wait until the flashing light has stopped and any barriers have lifted before you continue, even if you do not see a train.
Rules & Regulations
- When a red flashing light at a level crossing is lit, you must stop before the stop line or barrier and must not drive across the tracks.
- The signal applies whether or not there are barriers – a red flashing light takes precedence over your own judgment about whether a train can be seen or heard.
- If the light starts flashing while you are already on the crossing, you should immediately drive off the track area if possible and never remain on the tracks.
- You must not drive forward to bypass blocked traffic and stop on the track area; plan so that you never need to stop on the tracks.
Tips for Drivers
- When approaching a level crossing where a red flashing light may occur, slow down in good time so you have enough distance to stop safely.
- Watch the movement of vehicles ahead – cars may brake quickly when the signal begins to flash.
- Look for the stop line or markings and position your vehicle so you do not block the track if you need to stop.
- If your vehicle breaks down on the tracks: leave the vehicle immediately, move to the side and call the emergency number usually posted at the crossing or call 112.
Common Mistakes
- Believing it is okay to drive across because you cannot see or hear a train.
- Stopping on the track area in a queue or after attempting to drive through when the light starts to flash.
- Confusing a flashing red at a level crossing with other types of traffic signals and underestimating the danger.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Flashing Red Light
How should you interpret a flashing red light at an intersection?
- A Warns of a level crossing — stop if a train is approaching
- B Warns of a speed camera
- C Indicates that you should wait for green without checking for trains
- D Applies only to trams
Exam Tip
In the theory test you may be asked what to do if the red flashing light comes on: the correct answer is to stop before the crossing and not drive over the tracks. A common trap is answer choices that suggest you may continue if you do not see a train — that is incorrect.
Did You Know?
Red flashing lights are often used at unguarded or combined crossings where barriers are not always present; their purpose is to give a clear warning of an approaching train, and many accidents decreased after flashing lights became more common.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive across if the red flashing light goes out just before I reach the crossing?
Yes, you may drive across only when the red flashing light has stopped and it is safe to pass. Also check that any barriers are raised and that no trains are approaching.
Does the rule apply even if there are no barriers at the crossing?
Yes. A red flashing light applies regardless of whether there are barriers and means you must stop before passing the track area.
What do I do if my car stops on the track when the light starts to flash?
Leave the vehicle immediately and move away from the tracks in the direction away from the train. Call the emergency number usually posted at the crossing or 112 and try to warn other road users if possible.
Is a red flashing light the same as a regular red traffic light?
They are the same in the sense of 'stop', but a red flashing light at a level crossing specifically warns of trains and requires you to stop before the tracks until the signal ceases. It is therefore particularly important to follow this signal strictly.
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