When observing a yellow flag at MP 309.5 with no track bulletin, what must dispatch verify before normal speed can be resumed?

When observing a yellow flag at MP 309.5 with no track bulletin, what must dispatch verify before normal speed can be resumed?

• A. Dispatch must verify a new timetable is in effect.
• B. Dispatch must verify no track warrant is in effect.
• C. Dispatch must verify the crew’s hours are within limits.
• D. Dispatch must verify the train has cleared the area.

Answer: (B)

A yellow flag signals protection on the track, so you can’t go back to normal speed until you have proper authority for that block. Dispatch must verify that no track warrant is in effect. A track warrant is the formal authorization that can limit or control movements on a specific track segment; if one is active, you must follow its terms and not assume unrestricted speed. Only when dispatch confirms there’s no track warrant on that block can you resume normal speed safely. The other options don’t address the immediate authority needed to move past the flag: timetable changes, crew hours, or simply the area being clear do not replace the required track authority verification.

A yellow flag signals protection on the track, so you can’t go back to normal speed until you have proper authority for that block. Dispatch must verify that no track warrant is in effect. A track warrant is the formal authorization that can limit or control movements on a specific track segment; if one is active, you must follow its terms and not assume unrestricted speed. Only when dispatch confirms there’s no track warrant on that block can you resume normal speed safely. The other options don’t address the immediate authority needed to move past the flag: timetable changes, crew hours, or simply the area being clear do not replace the required track authority verification.