Without exception, what should you never do when encountering a railroad gate or barrier?

Driving through a railroad gate or barrier is never permitted and is a clear violation of safety protocols. Railroad gates and barriers are in place to protect drivers and pedestrians from the dangers of oncoming trains. When a gate is down, it indicates that a train is approaching, and attempting to cross can lead to severe consequences, including collisions that can result in injury or death.

Choosing to drive through the barrier disregards the warning signals that are designed to prevent accidents. The potential for harm not only affects the vehicle occupants but also poses significant risks to train operators and passengers on the train. Always waiting for the gate to lift ensures that you are making a safe choice and complying with traffic laws, offering the safest course of action when approaching railroad crossings.