How far must a driver stop from a railway crossing when the gates are down?

When approaching a railway crossing with the gates down, a driver must stop at least 5 meters away from the crossing. This distance is crucial for ensuring safety. Stopping at this distance keeps drivers out of the danger zone and allows enough space for any train to pass.

This requirement is in place to minimize the risk of collisions between vehicles and trains, which can have devastating consequences. It also ensures that the driver's view of the tracks is unobstructed, allowing them to accurately assess whether it is safe to proceed when the barrier is lifted.

In Ontario, adhering to this rule is essential not just for the driver's safety but also for that of passengers, pedestrians, and rail operators. Other options suggest distances that are either too short or too long, making the 5-meter rule the most appropriate and effective guideline for maintaining safety at railway crossings.