Red Steady Light
The signal indicates stop at a railway crossing
When You See This Sign
When you see a steady red light at a railway crossing you should immediately stop before the stop line or, if there is no line, well before the crossing so that your vehicle does not end up on the tracks. Wait until the red light has gone out, any barriers are raised, and you have a clear view in both directions before driving across. Never pass the signal just because you do not see a train.
Rules & Regulations
- When a steady red light at a railway crossing is lit, you must stop before the stop line or, if there is none, well before the crossing so that your vehicle cannot end up on the tracks.
- You must not pass the signal until the steady red light has gone out and it is clearly safe to proceed (for example, the barriers are raised and you have a clear view of the tracks).
- It is forbidden to stop or park on the railway tracks themselves or in a way that blocks the crossing; plan your stops so that you are never left on the tracks when the light is red.
- Always follow any additional instructions at the crossing (barriers, flashing lights, audible warnings, or a crossing attendant). A red light that has gone out does not automatically mean it is safe to proceed until any barriers are raised and it is safe.
Tips for Drivers
- Position your car so you can clearly see the stop line before you need to stop — leave space so you do not risk rolling onto the tracks if traffic stops.
- Look beyond the crossing before you drive across: wait until the light has gone out, the barriers are raised, and you have a clear view in both directions along the tracks.
- Never attempt to drive around or force through lowered barriers or between half-barriers — it is dangerous and illegal.
- If queues risk stopping on the tracks, avoid entering the crossing; wait until there is enough space on the far side.
Common Mistakes
- Believing it is okay to pass because you cannot see a train nearby — the signal is automatic and must be obeyed even without a visible train.
- Pulling forward and stopping with the front of your vehicle on the tracks when traffic tightens up in front of the crossing.
- Assuming a red light that has gone out alone gives permission to go even if the barriers are still down.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Red Steady Light
What applies when you see this light at a railway crossing?
- A You must stop at the crossing.
- B You may pass if you see that no trains are approaching.
- C You only need to stop if the barriers are down.
- D Slow down but always continue over the tracks.
Exam Tip
In the theory test, scenarios are often tested: if the light goes out but the barriers are still down the question is whether you may pass — the correct answer is no, wait until the barriers are fully raised and it is clear to go.
Did You Know?
A steady red light (SIG17) is a standardized signal at many railway crossings and is often used together with barriers and audible warnings — even if the crossing appears empty, the signal can activate automatically well in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pass a steady red light if the barriers are raised?
No, you must not pass while the steady red light is lit. Wait until the light has gone out and the situation is safe, even if the barriers are raised.
Exactly where should I stop if there is no stop line?
Stop well before the crossing itself so that your vehicle cannot end up on the tracks. Keep enough distance so you can clearly see in both directions before you pass.
What do I do if my car stops on the tracks while the light turns red?
Immediately try to move the car off the tracks. If that is not possible, leave the vehicle and call the emergency number 112 and follow any instructions at the site to warn rail traffic.
Does the steady red light also apply to cyclists and pedestrians?
Yes, the signal applies to all road users including cyclists and pedestrians. Pedestrians must also wait until the signal indicates it is safe to cross.
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