§ 21-704. Moving heavy equipment at railroad crossings

   (a) Application of section. -- Unless a person has complied with this section, he may not drive or move on or across any railroad grade crossing any power shovel, derrick, roller, crawler-type tractor, or other equipment or structure that has:

   (1) A normal operating speed of 10 miles an hour or less; or

   (2) A vertical body or load clearance, measured above the level surface of a roadway, of less than:

      (i) One-half inch for each foot of the distance between any two adjacent axles; or

      (ii) 9 inches.

(b) Notice of intended crossing. -- Before any person drives or moves any equipment described in subsection (a) of this section on or across any railroad grade crossing, the person shall:

   (1) Notify an agent of the railroad of his intention; and

   (2) Afford the railroad reasonable time to provide proper protection at the crossing.

(c) Duty to stop, look, and listen. -- When the person approaches the crossing, he:

   (1) Shall stop within 50 feet but not less than 15 feet from the nearest rail in the crossing;

   (2) While stopped, shall listen and look in both directions along the track for any approaching or passing railroad train and for any signals indicating the approach or passage of a railroad train; and

   (3) May not proceed until he can do so safely.

(d) Obedience to signals. --

   (1) The person may not proceed if a warning is given by an automatic signal, crossing gate, flagman, or otherwise of the immediate approach or passage of a railroad train.

   (2) If the railroad provides a flagman, the person may proceed over the crossing only at the direction of the flagman.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 66 1/2, § 11-704; 1977, ch. 14, § 2; 2003, ch. 196.