How should you cross railroad tracks safely?

Riding straight within your lane when crossing railroad tracks is essential for maintaining control of your motorcycle. This approach ensures that you have the best balance and stability as you traverse the potentially uneven surface of the tracks. Crossing at an angle or turning sharply can lead to a loss of control and increase the risk of skidding or falling, especially if tracks are wet or if there are loose gravel or debris nearby.

By keeping your motorcycle aligned with the tracks, you also minimize the chance of the wheels catching on the rail itself. It's important to always be aware of your surroundings and the specific conditions at the crossing, as both environmental factors and the angle of the tracks can affect how safely you can cross.

Slowing down just before crossing is typically advised for safety reasons, but it should be done with the intention of maintaining a straight path through your lane. Abrupt changes in speed or direction can lead to instability, which is why aligning straight is the recommended practice for a safe crossing.