LEC Track & Signal Systems

Question 1

What does a red signal aspect (Stop) require a locomotive engineer to do?

Accepted Answer

Stop and not proceed without proper authority

Answer

Reduce speed to 15 mph and proceed with caution

Answer

Stop momentarily, then proceed at restricted speed

Answer

Reduce speed to restricted speed and continue

Question 2

What is the primary function of a Cab Signal System on a locomotive?

Accepted Answer

It displays wayside signal aspects inside the cab for the engineer

Answer

It controls the locomotive throttle automatically based on grade

Answer

It transmits train speed data to the dispatch center

Answer

It activates the emergency brake when approaching a station

Question 3

Under FRA track standards, what is the maximum authorized speed for freight trains on Class 4 track?

Accepted Answer

60 mph

Answer

50 mph

Answer

70 mph

Answer

80 mph

Question 4

Which hazard is Positive Train Control (PTC) primarily designed to prevent?

Accepted Answer

Train-to-train collisions and overspeed violations

Answer

Derailments caused by broken rails

Answer

Equipment failures due to hot journal bearings

Answer

Signal malfunctions in dark territory

Question 5

What does an 'Approach' signal aspect (yellow over red) communicate to the engineer?

Accepted Answer

Proceed prepared to stop at the next signal

Answer

Proceed at maximum authorized speed

Answer

Reduce speed to 30 mph through the next block

Answer

Stop and wait for a track warrant

Question 6

What is the primary purpose of a Track Warrant (Form B) in railroad operations?

Accepted Answer

To grant a train authority to occupy a defined section of track in non-signaled territory

Answer

To authorize maintenance crews to perform track inspections

Answer

To record the engineer's hours of service for FRA compliance

Answer

To authorize a locomotive to exceed the posted track speed limit

Question 7

In an Automatic Block Signal (ABS) system, what does a block signal primarily protect against?

Accepted Answer

Two trains occupying the same block simultaneously

Answer

Speed violations at grade crossings

Answer

Unauthorized personnel entering the right-of-way

Answer

Equipment failures at interlocking switches