What happens if a train exceeds the maximum authorized speed on a siding?

Exceeding the maximum authorized speed on a siding is a serious safety violation that can lead to accidents or derailments. The correct response dictates that the train must stop immediately. This requirement serves to ensure the safety of the crew, passengers, and the integrity of the track and rolling stock. Stopping immediately can prevent potential damage that may occur from continued operation at an unsafe speed.

This standard reflects a commitment to safety protocols that are critical in train operations, particularly on sidings, where trains are often expected to move more slowly than on main lines. Immediate cessation of movement allows for assessment of the situation, adherence to safety regulations, and triage of any arising issues that may affect the train’s operations or the safety of the infrastructure.

While reviewing rules and filing incident reports could be subsequent actions following the incident, these steps do not take precedence over the immediate action of stopping the train to mitigate risk. Hence, the focus on stopping the train aligns with LIRR's overarching objective of maintaining safe and reliable service.