What should you avoid doing when crossing railroad tracks?

When crossing railroad tracks, it is important to avoid stopping or shifting gears. Stopping on the tracks can put both the driver and passengers in a dangerous situation, especially if a train is approaching. Additionally, shifting gears could distract the driver and delay their ability to clear the tracks quickly. It's crucial to maintain a steady speed and keep movements smooth to ensure that you can safely cross without any sudden interruptions.

In contrast, turning left is generally not prohibited at railroad crossings unless otherwise indicated, as many crossings allow for directional turns. Accelerating quickly is also not a good practice but is not as critical as stopping on the tracks. Using your turn signal is related more to turning, not crossing, so while it’s always good to signal when turning, it doesn't directly relate to the act of crossing the tracks themselves. Nonetheless, the safest option is to keep moving steadily across the tracks.