STOP, LOOK & LISTEN FOR RAILROAD EQUIPMENT

HB 160 requires drivers approaching railroad crossings to "stop, look, and listen" for all rail equipment - including maintenance vehicles and switching cars - not just trains. It amends New Mexico traffic laws to mandate stopping 15-50 feet from the tracks when approaching a crossing if any rail equipment is visible, audible, or blocking the path. This applies to all drivers (Section 66-7-341) and specifically reinforces safety steps for commercial vehicles carrying passengers, hazardous materials, or school buses (Section 66-7-343). The bill expands existing rules to address non-train rail equipment, with exceptions for crossings with active traffic control or official exemptions. The law aims to reduce crossing collisions by requiring proactive observation of all rail traffic.