Washington § 81.53.090 - Duty to maintain crossings.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 81.53.090 — Duty to maintain crossings., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 81.53.090. Duty to maintain crossings.

When a highway crosses a railroad by an over-crossing or under-crossing, the framework and abutments of the over-crossing or under-crossing, as the case may be, shall be maintained and kept in repair by the railroad company, and the roadway thereover or thereunder and approaches thereto shall be maintained and kept in repair by the county or municipality in which the same are situated, or if the highway is a state road or parkway, the roadway over or under the railroad shall be maintained and kept in repair as provided by law for the maintenance and repair of state roads and parkways.
The railings of over-crossings shall be considered a part of the roadway. Whenever a highway intersects a railroad at common grade, the roadway approaches within one foot of the outside of either rail shall be maintained and kept in repair by highway authority, and the planking or other materials between the rails and for one foot on the outside thereof shall be installed and maintained by the railroad company. At crossings involving more than one track, maintenance by the railroad company shall include that portion of the crossing between and for one foot on the outside of each outside rail. The minimum length of such planking or other materials shall be twenty feet on installation or repairs made after February 24, 1937.
[ 1961 c 14 s 81.53.090. Prior: 1937 c 22 s 3; 1913 c 30 s 5; RRS s 10515. Formerly RCW 81.52.160.]

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

Related Washington Legal Topics

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 81.53.090

What does Revised Code of Washington § 81.53.090 cover?

Section 81.53.090 ("Duty to maintain crossings.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. 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 Washington § 81.53.090?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 81.53.090" (Washington). 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 Washington law?

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

How does Washington § 81.53.090 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington 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 Washington.