What is a critical safety measure when approaching a railway crossing?

When approaching a railway crossing, the critical safety measure is to stop and look both ways. This action is essential because it allows the driver to ensure that no trains are approaching from either direction before proceeding. Trains can come unexpectedly and do not adhere to traffic signals, so taking the time to stop and actively look for any signals or signs of an oncoming train is vital for safety.

While checking for pedestrians and sounding the horn can be part of overall safety precautions in certain contexts, they do not replace the necessity of stopping and observing the surroundings at a railway crossing. The practice of stopping ensures that the driver is fully aware of their environment before making the decision to cross, significantly reducing the risk of an accident.