Idaho § 49-648 - Obedience to signal indicating approach of train or other on-track equipment

Full text of Idaho Idaho Statutes § 49-648 — Obedience to signal indicating approach of train or other on-track equipment, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 49-648. Obedience to signal indicating approach of train or other on-track equipment

(1) Whenever any person driving a vehicle approaches a railroad grade crossing under any of the circumstances stated in this section, the driver shall stop within fifty (50) feet but not less than fifteen (15) feet from the nearest rail of the railroad and shall not proceed until he can do so safely. These requirements shall apply when:

(a) A stop sign is in place and there is an absence of any mechanical warning signals;

(b) A clearly visible electric or mechanical signal device gives warning of the immediate approach of a railroad train or other on-track equipment;

(c) A crossing gate is lowered or when a flagman gives or continues to give a signal of the approach or passage of a railroad train or other on-track equipment;

(d) A railroad train or other on-track equipment approaching within approximately one thousand five hundred (1,500) feet of the highway crossing emits a signal audible from that distance and the railroad train or other on-track equipment, by reason of its speed or nearness to the crossing, is an immediate hazard;

(e) An approaching railroad train or other on-track equipment is plainly visible and is in hazardous proximity to the crossing.

(2) No person shall drive any vehicle through, around, or under any crossing gate or barrier at a railroad crossing while the gate or barrier is closed or is being opened or closed.

[49-648, added 1988, ch. 265, sec. 175, p. 666; am. 1998, ch. 13, sec. 1, p. 112; am. 2021, ch. 168, sec. 2, p. 471.]

Source: official Idaho text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Idaho § 49-648

What does Idaho Statutes § 49-648 cover?

Section 49-648 ("Obedience to signal indicating approach of train or other on-track equipment") is part of the Idaho Statutes, the codified statutory law of Idaho. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Idaho § 49-648?

A common citation format is "Idaho Statutes § 49-648" (Idaho). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Idaho law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Idaho official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Idaho attorney.

How does Idaho § 49-648 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Idaho can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Idaho.