What actions must a driver take when encountering a railroad crossing?

When encountering a railroad crossing, a driver must slow down, look for trains, and be prepared to stop. This is critical for safety, as trains can approach at high speeds and may not always be visible until the last moment. The act of slowing down gives the driver the necessary time to assess the situation, looking both ways along the track for oncoming trains.

Being prepared to stop is essential because crossing gates, lights, or warning signs may indicate the presence of a train, necessitating a complete halt before proceeding. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of a potentially deadly collision between a vehicle and a train.

Other options suggest either inappropriate actions or insufficient caution. Speeding up and trying to cross quickly could lead to serious accidents, while turning off the engine is unnecessary and unhelpful in this context. Stopping only if a train is visible fails to recognize that trains can come unexpectedly and without warning, thus leaving the driver ill-prepared for a potential danger.