← Making Synapses
Making Synapses · Bringing Knowledge to Mankind

RailwayStaying within the maximum authorized speed

Every segment you run has its maximum authorized speed. You keep the train within it: running 10 mph or more over the limit is one of the kinds of conduct that revoke a locomotive engineer's certificate. Under restricted speed, what counts is being able to stop within one half of your range of vision.

Free to start

Scenarios

  • A segment of track with its maximum authorized speed.
  • Restricted speed is in effect.
  • An unannounced test with conditions less favorable than before the test began.

The steps

  1. Know the maximum authorized speed of each segment you operate.
  2. Never operate the locomotive or train 10 mph or more over the maximum authorized limit. Critical point
  3. Under restricted speed, keep the train able to stop within one half of your range of vision.
  4. Respond affirmatively to less favorable conditions, as the railroad's operating rules, timetable or mandatory directives require.

Safety rules that stop the station

  • Operating a locomotive or train 10 mph or more over the maximum authorized limit is unlawful and revokes the certificate.

To pass

  • At no moment 10 mph or more over the maximum authorized limit.
  • Under restricted speed, only a failure to stop within half the range of vision that causes an accident or incident reportable under Part 225 counts toward revocation.
  • One incident revokes the certificate for 30 days; two within 24 months, 180 days; three within 36 months, one year; four within 36 months, three years.
  • Only conduct in the last 36 months counts, and one incident that breaks several rules counts as a single violation.
  • A violation found during a properly conducted operational compliance test also counts; a test not conducted by the rules does not.

Official source

Federal · FRA, 49 CFR 240.117, 240.303 and 240.305

49 CFR Part 240: Qualification and Certification of Locomotive Engineers

The eCFR publishes 49 CFR Part 240 free: 240.305 lists the conduct that is unlawful for an engineer and 240.117 how long each case costs the certificate.

Making Synapses is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by the Federal Railroad Administration or any railroad. Agency names and regulations are named only to describe the content.