When is it permissible to drive around a railroad crossing gate that is down?

Driving around a railroad crossing gate that is down is never permissible because the gate is an active safety feature designed to prevent vehicles from crossing the tracks when a train is approaching. The presence of a lowered gate indicates that a train is either already in the vicinity or is about to cross the tracks, posing a significant danger to both the driver and passengers in the vehicle, as well as to train operators and passengers.

Ignoring the gate can lead to devastating consequences, such as collisions with trains, which are often fatal. Safety regulations are in place to ensure that drivers adhere to these rules for their protection and the safety of others. Therefore, it is crucial to respect the warnings indicated by a downed railroad crossing gate at all times.