The 'Telephone at Level Crossing' sign (code 787) is an important instruction or warning you might encounter before a railway or tramway crossing. It highlights the presence of a telephone, typically for emergencies, and reinforces the critical rule: never enter a level crossing unless you are certain the exit is clear. Always approach such crossings with caution, prepared to stop, and ensure you can fully clear the tracks before stopping.
Master the meaning and correct response for the 'Telephone at Level Crossing' sign (787), vital for your theory test revision. This sign's interpretation is key to navigating railway crossings safely and understanding UK traffic rules.
This level-crossing sign is used where road traffic interacts with rail, tram, or crossing equipment. It may refer to barriers, gates, warning lights, telephones, overhead cables, live rails, or special instructions for certain users. Because rail vehicles cannot stop quickly, the safe response is to slow early, obey signals and barriers, and enter only when there is enough space to clear the crossing completely. It is listed in the catalogue as code 787.
"Telephone at level crossing" warns or instructs drivers at a railway, tramway, or private crossing. The driver should approach prepared to stop and must keep the crossing clear.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the 787 - Telephone at level crossing road sign. Learn how the sign works, what rules it represents, and how it affects real driving situations. This FAQ strengthens your understanding and supports accurate decision making for the British driving theory exam in Great Britain.
The 787 sign, 'Telephone at Level Crossing', primarily warns drivers about an upcoming railway or tramway crossing and indicates that a telephone is available for use, likely in case of a breakdown or to report issues. Crucially, it reinforces the rule that you must not enter the crossing unless you can immediately exit it, ensuring you don't get trapped on the tracks.
When you see the 'Telephone at Level Crossing' sign (787), you should immediately prepare to stop. This means slowing down and assessing the crossing ahead. Ensure that there is sufficient space for your vehicle to completely clear the crossing on the other side before you proceed onto it. Always obey any signals, barriers, or gates present.
The telephone is specifically marked to provide a direct communication line in case of emergencies, such as a vehicle breakdown on the crossing or if you witness a hazard. It's a vital safety feature, allowing you to alert railway authorities quickly. Always use it if your vehicle is trapped or you suspect a problem, but only after ensuring your immediate safety.
A common trap is assuming a crossing is safe just because other vehicles have crossed or because you don't see a train. You must always ensure the exit is clear before entering. Another mistake is stopping on the tracks or within the crossing area. Remember, trains and trams cannot stop quickly, so patience and absolute certainty of clearing the crossing are key.
The 787 sign itself doesn't mandate stopping unless there are red lights flashing, barriers are down, or gates are closed. However, it instructs you to approach the crossing prepared to stop and crucially, to only enter if the exit is clear. This means you must slow down and be ready to stop if necessary to avoid being trapped on the tracks.
A clear reference image of the 787 - Telephone at level crossing road sign used in Great Britain.

The 787 - Telephone at level crossing road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The 787 - Telephone at level crossing road sign is part of the Great Britain Level Crossing Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Comparing similar road signs, like this 'Telephone at Level Crossing' sign, helps solidify your understanding and reduces confusion for your theory test revision. Practicing traffic sign comparison boosts your recall and ensures you can correctly identify and respond to all critical road signage.

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After reviewing the full list of road signs, challenge yourself with practice questions focused specifically on sign recognition. Reinforce your learning and ensure you're fully prepared to identify and understand all traffic signs on the DVSA theory test.
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