Yes they do.
Uncontrolled has no gates, and only a X sign for RR crossing. It may (or may not) have lights on a side pole.
Active crossing. A highway-railroad grade crossing that has flashing lights with or without crossing gates is called an "active railroad crossing". This is because it is activated automatically by the approach of a train, and shut off as the train passes. In the US, there are crossings that may use flashing lights that are not activated automatically, but nearly all were retired in the US by 1990. The watchman controlled flashing light grade crossing in southern New Jersey made headlines when it was retired in 1990, as the last of its kind in the country.
You should stop at a railroad crossing with mechanical gates and lights whenever the lights begin flashing. Do not attempt to cross while the gate is being closed.
You must stop at a railroad crossing with lights and gates when the lights are flashing and the gates are lowering or have already lowered. Additionally, you should stop if you hear a train horn or see a train approaching, even if the lights are not yet activated. Always ensure that you wait until the lights stop flashing and the gates are fully raised before proceeding. Never attempt to cross while the gates are down or the lights are flashing.
All US states require that you stop prior to entering the crossing, and a train is approaching the crossing. If there are also crossing gates, you must not go through the crossing when the gates are either being lowered or raised. If there are no gates, you are allowed to proceed through the crossing after stopping only after you have looked and determined no train is approaching and it is safe to cross. If there are gates, you are not allowed to go around the gates legally unless a railroad employee or a police officer instructs you that it is safe to do so.
A controlled railroad crossing features signals, gates, or other warning devices that alert drivers and pedestrians to the approach of a train, enhancing safety at the intersection. In contrast, an uncontrolled railroad crossing lacks these safety measures, relying instead on signage to indicate the presence of the tracks, which can pose a higher risk for accidents. Drivers and pedestrians at uncontrolled crossings must be more vigilant and aware of their surroundings when crossing the tracks.
When approaching a railroad grade crossing where the gates are down or the lights flashing you should stop before the stop line. If there is no stop line then at least 15 or more feet from the nearest rail.
Remote controlled gates are powered by buttons that send signals to receivers located on the gates. Once the signals are received the gates open.
When approaching a railroad crossing, always look both ways for trains, even if the lights aren't flashing and the gates aren't down. Trains can come from either direction and often travel faster than expected. It's crucial to stop and ensure the tracks are clear before proceeding. Remember, safety is paramount; if you see or hear a train, stop and wait for it to pass.
When the railroad crossing gates come down, it signals that a train is approaching, indicating that vehicles and pedestrians must stop and wait for the train to pass. The gates are typically accompanied by flashing lights and audible alarms to warn those nearby. This safety measure helps prevent accidents by ensuring that no one crosses the tracks while a train is in the vicinity. Once the train has passed and the area is clear, the gates will rise, allowing traffic to resume.
Stop at the stop lines for the railroad tracks or if there aren't any there stop 15 - 20 feet away from the gates.
Upon approaching a railroad crossing with the gates lowered, you must stop no less than 15 feet from the tracks. This distance ensures your safety and allows for enough space for trains to pass. Always be vigilant and wait until the gates are fully raised and the lights have stopped flashing before proceeding.
A passive crossing is marked by signs, pavement markings, and sometimes flashing lights or gates to indicate the presence of a railroad crossing. Drivers must stop and yield to oncoming trains.