What does the cross-buck sign display at multiple-track crossings?

The cross-buck sign, which is characterized by a large "X" shape with the words "Railroad Crossing," is specifically used to indicate the presence of a railway crossing. When it comes to multiple-track crossings, this sign serves to inform drivers that there may be more than one set of tracks in the area, which is a critical piece of information for safely navigating the crossing. Understanding that multiple tracks exist means that drivers should remain vigilant, as trains may be approaching on different tracks at the same time.

In this context, being aware of the number of tracks helps drivers estimate the potential for train traffic and enhances overall safety by encouraging them to stop and look in both directions before proceeding. This vigilance is particularly important at crossings where trains can come from either direction, and it's essential to ascertain the possibility of additional trains if more than one track is present.