Under restricted speed, what is the maximum speed until the entire movement clears turnouts, crossovers, and power-operated switches?

Under restricted speed, what is the maximum speed until the entire movement clears turnouts, crossovers, and power-operated switches?

• A. 15 MPH.
• B. 20 MPH.
• C. 25 MPH.
• D. 30 MPH.

Answer: (A)

Restricted speed means you must be able to stop within the distance you can see and be prepared to stop short of any obstruction. Near turnouts, crossovers, and power-operated switches, conditions can change quickly because a switch could be misaligned or moving, so you need extra braking distance and reaction time. That safety margin is why the movement is limited to 15 mph until you are completely clear of all those devices. Once you’re past them, you can proceed at the speed permitted for the current block or signal.

Restricted speed means you must be able to stop within the distance you can see and be prepared to stop short of any obstruction. Near turnouts, crossovers, and power-operated switches, conditions can change quickly because a switch could be misaligned or moving, so you need extra braking distance and reaction time. That safety margin is why the movement is limited to 15 mph until you are completely clear of all those devices. Once you’re past them, you can proceed at the speed permitted for the current block or signal.