What is the maximum speed allowed for trains or engines moving at restricted speed?

The maximum speed allowed for trains or engines moving at restricted speed is 20 mph. This speed limit is established to ensure safe operations in situations where visibility might be limited, where there are potential hazards on the tracks, or when approaching a work zone. The concept of restricted speed is fundamentally about prioritizing safety; it allows the crew to have enough time to react to unexpected conditions, such as a broken rail or work being performed on the track.

In a scenario where a train is operating at restricted speed, the crew must maintain a speed that enables them to stop within half the range of their vision. The specified limit of 20 mph ensures that trains can operate safely while also complying with the operational protocols laid out in BNSF Maintenance of Way Operating Rules. Other speed options presented may exceed the necessary caution required for restricted operations and do not align with the established safety protocols, which prioritize the protection of both train personnel and maintenance workers on or near the tracks.