Virginia § 56-412.1 - Railroad cars obstructing street or road; standing vehicle on railroad track
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 56-412.1 — Railroad cars obstructing street or road; standing vehicle on railroad track, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 56-412.1. Railroad cars obstructing street or road; standing vehicle on railroad track
It shall be unlawful for any railroad company, or any receiver or trustee operating a railroad, to obstruct for a longer period than five minutes the free passage on any street or road by standing cars or trains across the same, except a passenger train while receiving or discharging passengers, but a passway shall be kept open to allow normal flow of traffic; nor shall it be lawful to stand any wagon or other vehicle on the track of any railroad which will hinder or endanger a moving train; provided that when a train has been uncoupled, so as to make a passway, the time necessarily required, not exceeding three minutes, to pump up the air after the train has been recoupled shall not be included in considering the time such cars or trains were standing across such street or road. Any such railroad company, receiver or trustee, violating any of the provisions of this section shall be fined not less than $100 nor more than $500; provided that the fine may be $100 for each minute beyond the permitted time but the total fine shall not exceed $500.
This section shall not apply when the train is stopped due to breakdown, mechanical failure or emergency.
1958, c. 242; 1976, c. 89.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 56-412.1
What does Code of Virginia § 56-412.1 cover?
Section 56-412.1 ("Railroad cars obstructing street or road; standing vehicle on railroad track") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. 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 Virginia § 56-412.1?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 56-412.1" (Virginia). 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 Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 56-412.1 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia 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 Virginia.