When approaching a railway crossing with a warning signal, how far must you stop from the nearest rail?

When approaching a railway crossing with a warning signal, the proper stopping distance from the nearest rail is 5 meters. This distance is mandated to ensure safety and give drivers adequate space to react in case a train is approaching. Stopping at this distance helps avoid potential collisions by providing a clear buffer zone between the vehicle and the tracks.

Understanding this requirement is crucial because trains are often fast and can't stop as quickly as vehicles can. By stopping 5 meters from the nearest rail, drivers can better assess the situation at the crossing without the risk of being too close to the tracks, where visibility of oncoming trains may be obstructed. This also emphasizes the importance of adhering to traffic laws designed to protect public safety at railway crossings.