What is the appropriate response to flashing red lights at a railroad crossing?

The correct choice is to stop and wait for the train to pass, proceeding only when it is clearly safe to do so. Flashing red lights at a railroad crossing serve as a warning that a train is approaching. These lights indicate a stop signal, and it is crucial for safety that drivers adhere to this. By stopping, you allow time to assess the situation and ensure that the tracks are clear before proceeding. Trains can be very fast and can cover a significant distance in a short time, making it essential to ensure that it is safe to cross after stopping.

In contrast, the other responses do not prioritize safety. Simply stopping and looking around may not be sufficient, as it does not account for an approaching train's speed. Slowing down without stopping could lead to unsafe assumptions about the timing of the train's arrival. Speeding up to cross the tracks is extremely dangerous and could lead to a collision, as trains cannot stop quickly. Therefore, the best practice is to stop completely and proceed only when it is safe, thus ensuring the driver's and passengers' safety at the crossing.