When approaching a level crossing with barriers, should you take into account that, for various reasons, the safety devices might not close the crossing in time?
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Correct answer
YES
Explanation
You are approaching a level crossing with barriers which are up, and the signals are not lit. Safety devices are automatic equipment which can fail: a power failure, a damaged sensor, work on the tracks. That is why, as a driver, you must take into account that the level crossing may not be closed in time, and make sure yourself that no train is coming. The answer is: yes.
The Road Traffic Act requires a driver approaching a level crossing to exercise particular caution, before entering the tracks to make sure that no rail vehicle is approaching, and to drive at such a speed that they can stop in a safe place when a train is approaching or a safety device prohibits entry. Raised barriers are not a guarantee of safety - they are only one of the pieces of information which you check.
Legal basis: Art. 28 para. 1 and 2 of the Road Traffic Act (Prawo o ruchu drogowym)