Safety on the Tracks : Rule 306 for Road Users

Last updated:

📜 Highway Code Regulation 🚘 Independent revision guide 🌐 Multi-Language Translation Support

🖼️ Official Visual Diagram

Highway Code Rule 306

📖 Rule 306 Full Regulations & Explanation

Rule 306 ↗
All road users, but particularly cyclists and motorcyclists, should take extra care when driving or riding close to or crossing the tracks, especially if the rails are wet. You should take particular care when crossing the rails at shallow angles, on bends and at junctions. It is safest to cross the tracks directly at right angles. Other road users should be aware that cyclists and motorcyclists may need more space to cross the tracks safely.

Text shown in the rule image

Safety on the Tracks : Rule 306 for Road Users

Assessing the Risk

The Safe Crossing Maneuver

Avoid Shallow Angles

Crossing rails at a slight or shallow angle increases the risk of tires silding or getting caught in the groove .

Shared Road Responsibility

Give Extra Space

Other road users ( cars , vans , lorries ) must be aware that cyclists and motorcyclists may need to swing out or change position to cross tracks safely .

Vulnerable Road Users

While all road users must be careful , cyclists and motorcyclists face the highest risk when driving or riding near tracks .

The Danger of Wet Rails

Extra care is mandatory when tracks are wet , as the metal surface becomes significantly more slippery for tires .

The Right Angle Approach

The safest way to cross tracks is to steer the vehicle so it crosses the rails directly at a 90 - degree ( right ) angle .

High - Hazard Zones

Pay particular attention when backs coincide with bends , junctions , or are approached at shallow angles .

Anticipate Maneuvers

Motoriats should expect two - wheeled vehicles to slow down or alter their path when approaching tracks at junctions or bends .

Maximum Stability

Crossing at a perpendicular angle ensures the tire maintains the best possible contact and prevents it from being puiled off - course by the rail .