Stalling on tracks — New York Permit Test
Stalling on tracks on the New York permit test — 5 rules, each with the reason behind it and a question on it while it is fresh.
The rules
If a train approaches while a vehicle is stalled on the tracks the driver should release their seat belt, leave the vehicle and get as far away from the tracks as they can.
The car can be replaced. Getting out is the only part that cannot wait.
Manual STALLING ON RAILROAD TRACKS - If a train approaches, release your seat belt, leave the vehicle and get as far away as you can from the tracks.
A driver whose vehicle stalls on the tracks should get everybody away from the tracks even if they do not see a train.
A train can appear in the time it takes to try the key again.
That includes EVERYONE in the car, children, babies, an elderly passenger, etc.) 2. Get away from the tracks, even if you do not see a train.
A driver whose vehicle stalls on the tracks should locate the Emergency Notification System sign and call the number provided to tell them about the stalled vehicle.
That number reaches the railroad, which can stop the train. Nothing else can.
Locate the Emergency Notification System sign and call the number provided, telling them about the stalled vehicle.
If a train is approaching a driver should run toward the train but away from the tracks at a 45-degree angle, because running down the track in the same direction as the train risks being hit with debris.
The wreck is thrown the way the train is going. Running that way runs into it.
If a train is approaching, run toward the train but away from the tracks at a 45-degree angle.
When a driver is completely sure no trains are coming they can open their window to listen for a train and try to start the engine, and if that fails shift the vehicle into neutral and push it from the tracks.
Listening comes before pushing. A car can be moved; a decision made too late cannot.
When you are completely sure no trains are coming, open your window to listen for a train and try to start the engine.
On the test
What should a driver do first if their car stalls on the tracks and a train is coming?
Get out and away from the tracks. The car can be replaced. Getting out is the only part that cannot wait. New York State Driver's Manual, p.66: “Manual STALLING ON RAILROAD TRACKS - If a train approaches, release your seat belt, leave the vehicle and get as far away as you can from the tracks.”
How this works
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Learning one rule at a time, and proving it immediately, is what turns a manual you skimmed into something you actually know — and it makes studying feel like getting somewhere rather than like waiting to find out.
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Where these come from
Every rule here is checked against New York State Driver's Manual, published by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, and against the state code itself. Last checked 2026-09-15.