Which vehicles are typically required to stop at railway crossings?

Regular buses and school buses are typically required to stop at railway crossings due to the heightened safety concerns for passengers, especially children. This regulation is primarily in place to ensure that drivers can check for oncoming trains before proceeding. Buses, particularly school buses, transport groups of people and often include children who may not be aware of potential dangers. As a result, stopping at railway crossings allows the bus driver to assess the situation and ensure that it is safe to cross the tracks, thus prioritizing the safety of all passengers on board.

In contrast, some other vehicles have different requirements. Commercial trucks may also be required to stop, but this can vary based on specific state regulations and the type of cargo they carry. Private cars typically do not have to stop unless specifically indicated, and emergency vehicles may proceed through if their lights and sirens are active. Therefore, the requirement for regular and school buses to stop is primarily grounded in safety regulations aimed at protecting vulnerable passengers.