What do train signal colors mean?

Railway signalling principles The signal lights usually have four indicators: Green: clear to go. Double yellow: still clear to go, but indicates that the following signal may be a warning. Yellow: warns that the next signal may be red. Red: means stop or danger ahead.



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Blue Signal Display Blue signals displayed in accordance with §§218.25, 27, or 29, signify that workers are on, under, or between railroad rolling equipment. When so displayed: The equipment may not be coupled to. The equipment may not be moved (see exceptions in §218.29).

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The orange flag indicates that a train should be prepared to stop due to conditions it will be approaching. The yellow and red flag indicates that there is a temporary speed reduction followed by a stop signal. The yellow and green flag indicates that there is a temporary speed reduction, followed by an all clear.

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A low-voltage electric current is sent between the two rails via a series of relays like the ones in this photo. When a train approaches, the current runs through the train's metal wheels and axles instead of the relays. This short circuit activates the crossing signal.

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People need to be able to see and hear trains appropriately so they're able to stay safe. In Britain, historically train fronts were required to have a yellow panel in order to make them more visible, a move which came in the 1950s when newer diesel and electric trains were found to be far quieter than steam.

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A STEADY YELLOW LIGHT tells you a steady red light will soon appear. If you are driving toward an intersection and a yellow light appears, slow down and prepare to stop. If you are within the intersection or cannot stop safely before entering the intersection, continue through carefully.

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