Warning for railway crossing without barriers
The sign indicates a crossing with a railway without barriers.
When You See This Sign
When you see the sign you should immediately reduce your speed, look and listen in both directions and be prepared to stop. Only cross the tracks when they are completely clear and you can drive over without having to stop on the track area.
Rules & Regulations
- The sign warns of a level crossing without barriers — the crossing is not automatically protected.
- Reduce your speed, look and listen in both directions before you pass, and be prepared to stop.
- Trains always have priority; do not cross the tracks if there is a risk you will be stopped on them.
- Follow any light or sound signals and instructions from crossing attendants or police; these take precedence over the sign's warning.
Tips for Drivers
- Reduce speed in good time and visually scan the tracks in both directions before entering the crossing.
- Lower the radio volume or open a window in poor visibility so you can better hear train signals.
- Make sure you can clear the entire crossing without having to stop on the tracks; if there is a queue behind you, wait.
- Avoid overtaking and lateral movements near the crossing and pay extra attention to the vehicle in front of you.
Common Mistakes
- Believing you must always stop at the sign — A36 is only a warning; stop only if necessary or if signals require it.
- Not listening or relying solely on being able to see a train — trains can be quiet or appear suddenly.
- Starting to cross despite poor visibility or a risk of becoming stranded on the tracks.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Warning for railway crossing without barriers
What does this sign mean for you as a driver?
- A Level crossing without barriers — be extra attentive; look and listen before you drive across the tracks.
- B Level crossing with barriers — wait until the barriers have opened.
- C It is a road junction where you always have to yield.
- D Roundabout with tram traffic.
Exam Tip
In the theory test you may be asked about the difference between crossings with and without barriers. Remember that A36 is only a warning — you are not always required to stop, but trains always have priority and you must be prepared to stop if necessary or if signals indicate so.
Did You Know?
The sign is designated A36 in the Swedish road sign register and is often used on country roads and smaller crossings where there are no barriers. On main lines and newer installations, barriers or automatic warning systems are more commonly installed, so A36 mainly occurs at low-traffic lines and industrial tracks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I always have to stop at A36?
No, A36 is a warning sign and does not always require a stop. However, you must reduce speed, look and listen, and stop if there is a risk or if signals/lights indicate that you should.
Am I allowed to overtake before a level crossing without barriers?
Overtaking near a level crossing is risky and should be avoided. Overtaking is inappropriate if visibility is limited or if it could result in you ending up on the tracks in an unsafe situation.
What should I do if visibility is poor at the crossing?
If visibility is poor, reduce your speed even more and be prepared to stop to ensure the tracks are clear. Exit the vehicle only if it is safe and necessary to check the track.
Does the sign mean that there are always light or sound signals?
No, A36 indicates a crossing without barriers but does not say anything definite about the presence of light or sound signals. Therefore you must always visually and audibly check that it is clear before you cross.
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