If there is no train and the gates have failed to go up at a railroad crossing, what should you do?

In the situation where the railroad crossing gates have failed to go up and there is no train present, the most appropriate action is to notify dispatch. This ensures that trained personnel are made aware of the malfunction, allowing for necessary precautions to be taken. Dispatch can then alert the proper authorities to handle the situation safely, which may include sending someone to fix the gates or providing further instructions on how to manage the crossing.

It is crucial not to attempt to manually raise the gates, as this may cause further complications or could be unsafe. Additionally, simply waiting for a specified period does not address the issue effectively, as the malfunction could create a dangerous situation for both the bus driver and other vehicles approaching the crossing. Continuing through the crossing without addressing the gate failure poses significant risks and is not advisable, even in the absence of a train. Taking immediate action by contacting dispatch is the best course of action to ensure safety and proper handling of the situation.