What term describes the maximum safe speed assigned to a permanent track segment?

What term describes the maximum safe speed assigned to a permanent track segment?

• A. Authorized speed
• B. Design speed
• C. Maximum permissible speed
• D. Target speed

Answer: (A)

Authorized speed is the maximum safe speed assigned to a permanent track segment. It reflects the current conditions and what can safely be run on that specific piece of track, taking into account factors like track geometry, curvature, grade, turnout, and overall track condition, along with signaling protections. This speed is the limit trains must not exceed on that segment and is used in timetables and speed restrictions for operations. The design speed, by contrast, is the speed used during the track's planning and design—not the live limit. A broader term like maximum permissible speed refers to the highest speed allowed by track class or route in general, not the exact current limit for a particular segment. Target speed is a planned or recommended speed for efficiency, not the legal maximum.

Authorized speed is the maximum safe speed assigned to a permanent track segment. It reflects the current conditions and what can safely be run on that specific piece of track, taking into account factors like track geometry, curvature, grade, turnout, and overall track condition, along with signaling protections. This speed is the limit trains must not exceed on that segment and is used in timetables and speed restrictions for operations. The design speed, by contrast, is the speed used during the track's planning and design—not the live limit. A broader term like maximum permissible speed refers to the highest speed allowed by track class or route in general, not the exact current limit for a particular segment. Target speed is a planned or recommended speed for efficiency, not the legal maximum.