New York Driver's Handbook, Section 10: Special Driving Conditions
Railroad crossings, expressways, night driving, rain, fog and snow, winter, deer and emergencies.
Summary written by MyPermitExam from the official handbook, MV-21 (9/25). Not a copy of the handbook. Checked Oct 2026. Not affiliated with the DMV. New York State Driver's Manual (MV-21)
Key rules
- Stop at least 15 feet from the tracks when lights flash or gates are down; if stalled, get out and run toward the train at a 45-degree angle. p. 61
- Headlights from half an hour after sunset to half an hour before sunrise and with wipers on; low beams within 500 feet of oncoming and 200 feet behind. p. 63
- In a rear-wheel skid steer where the car is trying to go; bridges and ramps freeze first. p. 64
- In any emergency, do not panic: pump failed brakes, shift to neutral for a stuck pedal and steer right for a head-on vehicle. p. 65