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Railway crossingPanama

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Panama. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
Panama

2. Railway crossing

A railway crossing, also called a level crossing or railroad crossing, is a place where a road or path crosses railway tracks at the same level. It may be protected by barriers, warning lights, bells, traffic signs or a combination of these measures.

Road users must approach carefully and never enter when a train is approaching, warning signals are active or the exit is blocked. They should cross promptly and must never stop, wait or become trapped on the tracks.

Railway crossing
Railway crossing on the Panama Canal Railway. (Panama)
Wikimedia.org • ArnoldReinhold • CC BY-SA
When must drivers stop at a railway level crossing in Panama?

Approach slowly enough to obey the crossing’s controls. Stop for a STOP instruction, red signal or authorised inspector’s stop direction. Article 145 requires drivers to check that a railway crossing manoeuvre can be completed without danger; do not enter with approaching rail traffic or an obstructed exit.

🔗 gacetaoficial.gob.pa • Panama, Executive Decree 640/2006, Traffic Regulation, Gazette 25701, 29 December 2006

What if road traffic is queued beyond a railway crossing in Panama?

Wait before the tracks until there is room to take your entire vehicle off the crossing. Do not follow another vehicle onto the tracks without checking the exit. Keep the tracks clear even if no train is visible.

🔗 gacetaoficial.gob.pa • Panama Official Gazette, Road Traffic Regulations

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