Which description best defines restricted speed?

• A. Restricted speed emphasizes being able to stop within visibility and avoid obstructions.
• B. Restricted speed allows unlimited distance for stopping.
• C. Restricted speed requires operating at normal maximum speed in all areas.
• D. Restricted speed is the same as normal track speed with no additional precautions.

Answer: (A)

Restricted speed means moving at a pace where you can stop within the distance you can clearly see ahead, so you can avoid any obstruction and comply with stop signals. This requirement keeps you safe by ensuring you can react in time to anything visible on the track, whether it’s a train ahead, a person, a fallen object, or a signal that needs obeying. In practice, you slow down in areas with limited visibility, curves, yard tracks, or approaching signals where the stopping distance may be shorter than normal. You must be prepared to stop before any obstruction or signal, rather than assuming you can continue at higher speeds. The other descriptions suggest unlimited stopping distance, continuing at normal maximum speed, or treating restricted speed as the same as normal track speed, which do not reflect the safety constraint of being able to stop within the visible range.