I've seen several examples of advanced warning signs acting as a crossbucks, usually on bike and pedestrian paths. I'm not sure of what the various state laws say about crossbucks vs advance warning signs, but I guess as long as people are made aware of the fact they are crossing a RR track that's all that matters.
There are a couple of these scenarios in Lemont, IL. There is an advanced warning sign (the RXR sign) then as you get to the crossing there are two RXR and Stop Signs. One has a total of 3 signs... I'll try to get pictures next time I'm out there.
This looks as if it would qualify as a private crossing... so in that case, normal protocol likely doesn't apply. Wouldn't the crossing owner then be the one to decide what signs to post?
Actually, it is very important to post the correct signs and maintain consistancy. This could be very confusing and could cause and accident. Plus, to people like me whom are smart enough to know how to do things right, this is really annoying. Don't they teach the meaning of signs in kindergarden or first grade? Somebody that freakin' stupid should not be in charge of making decisions of any kind more important than what ply of toilet paper to buy, nevermind something as safety sensitive as a railroad crossing or traffic signs.
When I was a little kid I had a hot wheels train set that had advance warning signs in place of crossbucks at one of it's grade crossings. It really annoyed me. Why, you ask? Because I was smart enough to know it was wrong. Since toys are supposed to be educational, shouldn't that be all the reason more to make them correct?
I can't stand stupid people.
The crossbuck is way back from the tracks... almost as if it is being used as an advanced warning sign. This looks to be a spur track, so not much use I'm sure... but there is really no reason why they couldn't put the crossbuck where it belongs that I can see. It could go in that parking lot next to the white stop line with some barriers around it to protect it.
On the other side of the tracks they mounted the crossuck way back as well... this time on a street light pole! The one thing they did right was on the road that T's with this one next to the gas station. The crossbuck there is mounted where it should be.