Why do locomotives blow their horns at road crossings?
Various laws require train crews to sound the horn in advance of public crossings. The Federal Railroad Administration is considering a national horn policy that might include “quiet zone” provisions where the horn won’t be required if certain safety upgrades are made at the crossings; a decision is pending. Additional signals may be sounded if the crew believes a pedestrian, motorist, or other individual appears to be unaware of the train’s approach, or if other safety considerations, such as poor visibility or obstructions, are present.
