At meeting points between EXTRA trains, which train will take the siding?

In the context of the LIRR Operating Rule Book, when two EXTRA trains meet, the protocol dictates that the train headed in the westward direction will take the siding. This can be attributed to safety and operational efficiency, allowing the eastward train to maintain its path without delay.

The rationale behind this practice is rooted in the primary flow of train traffic and the frequency of operations along the line. Because trains running in the eastward direction typically have a higher density of scheduled services, it is critical to prioritize their movement to minimize delays. The westward train, being directed to take the siding, can facilitate this priority.

This rule serves to establish a standardized procedure that promotes smooth operations, reducing potential conflicts and ensuring that services can continue with minimal disruption. Therefore, the correct understanding of this rule reinforces the operational practices that govern train interactions in order to enhance safety and efficiency on the railway.