How should drivers react to a railroad crossing signal that is activated?

When a railroad crossing signal is activated, it indicates that a train is approaching and that the tracks should be cleared for safety. The correct reaction for drivers is to stop and wait until the signal turns off. This response is vital for preventing accidents, as trains can travel at high speeds and may not be visible until it's too late.

Stopping ensures that drivers are giving themselves adequate time to assess the situation; once the lights stop flashing and the arms (if present) are raised, it is safe to proceed. This action aligns with traffic laws designed to protect both drivers and pedestrians from dangerous situations at railway crossings.

Other choices, such as speeding through, proceeding without stopping, or honking the horn, do not ensure safety and could lead to serious collisions with oncoming trains.