When should you always stop before crossing railroad tracks?

Stopping before crossing railroad tracks is essential to ensure the safety of all road users, particularly in scenarios where there isn't enough space to clear the tracks completely after crossing. If you find yourself in a situation where your vehicle could become stuck on the tracks, it’s crucial to stop and assess the situation. This prevents the risk of being hit by a train, which can lead to severe accidents and fatalities.

While the other scenarios may seem relevant, they do not inherently justify stopping in the same way. For example, high train traffic in a city is a factor to consider while driving near tracks, but it does not dictate a universal rule of stopping without evaluating your own vehicle's positioning. Additionally, the presence of children in the vehicle or an approaching train certainly heightens risk considerations, but the fundamental rule remains about ensuring a clear and safe crossing. Thus, the primary focus should be on whether your vehicle can completely cross the tracks without stopping, as this is a situation that can directly lead to danger if not heeded.