When crossing over railroad tracks running parallel to the road, you should:

Use this motorcycle practice test question to prepare for the real written exam at the DMV or during your motorcycle safety course. 

When crossing over railroad tracks running parallel to the road, you should:

1. Not cross the tracks under any circumstances. 
2. Cross the tracks as parallel to them as possible.
3. Cross the tracks at a 90 degree angle.
4. Cross the tracks at about a 45 degree angle.

Find the answer to this question and an explanation below. 

Answer

This topic may show up on your motorcycle permit test. 

The answer is: D. Cross the tracks at about a 45 degree angle.

How’d you do? Learn more about this motorcycle topic below. 

Explanation: Crossing Railroad Tracks on a Motorcycle

In order to pass your motorcycle permit exams and to become a safe rider, it’s important to know why a particular answer on the motorcycle written test is correct. 

If there are railroad or trolley tracks that run parallel to the road that you need to cross over, you should be sure to exercise caution when doing so. 

The best way to cross a parallel set of tracks is to:

• Move to the right portion of the lane to swing wider. 
• Angle your at about 45 degrees to the tracks. 
• Cross over as close to a 45 degree angle as possible. 
• Turn your motorcycle straight again and continue riding. 

Crossing the tracks at 90 degrees can put you in harm’s way or on a collision course with another vehicle. 

Crossing the tracks at too small of an angle can throw you off balance, create a loss of traction, and cause you to lose control. 

You can find more information about this topic in the motorcycle rider’s handbook.

Check out more motorcycle permit test questions and answers here.

Find in-depth articles for new riders in our section dedicated to learning how to ride a motorcycle.

Plus, check out an overview of the requirements to get a motorcycle endorsement in each state.