What is the ideal angle to cross railroad tracks safely?

Crossing railroad tracks safely is crucial for motorcyclists, and the ideal angle for doing so is 90 degrees. When approaching and crossing railroad tracks, positioning your motorcycle at a right angle to the tracks provides the safest maneuver. This angle minimizes the likelihood of slipping on the tracks, as the wheels cross directly over without positioning the tire at an angle that could lead to a loss of traction.

At 90 degrees, the motorcycle's tires make direct contact with the rails rather than traversing sideways. This direct crossing diminishes the risk associated with wet, slippery rails and allows for better control of the motorcycle over the tracks. Maintaining a straight path while crossing also helps in maintaining stability and balance, which is especially important on a two-wheeled vehicle.

Other angles, such as 45 degrees, 30 degrees, or 60 degrees, would place the tires at more risk for sliding, could lead to an error in control, and generally do not facilitate a straightforward pass over the tracks, increasing the chances of an accident. Understanding the importance of crossing at the correct angle can greatly enhance safety when navigating railroad crossings.