What are quiet zones in relation to railroad crossings?

Quiet zones at railroad crossings are designated areas where train horns are not sounded as trains approach. This concept is implemented to reduce noise pollution and improve the quality of life for nearby residents while maintaining safety measures at crossings.

In quiet zones, additional safety features, such as gates, flashing lights, or other advanced warning systems may be used to compensate for the absence of a train horn. These enhancements are important because they help alert drivers and pedestrians of an approaching train without the loud warning that typically comes from the horn.

The other options do not accurately define quiet zones. Regions with more traffic signals or places with lower speed limits involve different aspects of traffic management and safety protocols, while sections with no train activity do not correlate with the concept of quiet zones, since these areas still have trains passing through them but with modified sound protocols.