Classes of track: operating speed limits.

  1. Law
  2. CFR 49
  3. Transportation
  4. Other Regulations Relating to Transportation
  5. Federal Railroad Administration, Department of Transportation
  6. Track Safety Standards
  7. Train Operations at Track Classes 6 and Higher
  8. Classes of track: operating speed limits.

Checkout our iOS App for a better way to browser and research.

§ 213.307 Classes of track: operating speed limits.

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section and as otherwise provided in this subpart G, the following maximum allowable speeds apply:

Expand Table
Over track that meets all of the requirements prescribed in this subpart for - The maximum allowable
operating
speed for
trains is1
Class 6 track 110 m.p.h.
Class 7 track 125 m.p.h.
Class 8 track 160 m.p.h.2
Class 9 track 220 m.p.h.2

1 Freight may be transported at passenger train speeds if the following conditions are met:

(1) The vehicles utilized to carry such freight are of equal dynamic performance and have been qualified in accordance with § 213.329 and § 213.345.

(2) The load distribution and securement in the freight vehicle will not adversely affect the dynamic performance of the vehicle. The axle loading pattern is uniform and does not exceed the passenger locomotive axle loadings utilized in passenger service, if any, operating at the same maximum speed.

(3) No carrier may accept or transport a hazardous material, as defined at 49 CFR 171.8, except as provided in Column 9A of the Hazardous Materials Table (49 CFR 172.101) for movement in the same train as a passenger-carrying vehicle or in Column 9B of the Table for movement in a train with no passenger-carrying vehicles.

2 Operating speeds in excess of 125 m.p.h. are authorized by this part only in conjunction with FRA regulatory approval addressing other safety issues presented by the railroad system. For operations on a dedicated right-of-way, FRA's regulatory approval may allow for the use of inspection and maintenance criteria and procedures in the alternative to those contained in this subpart, based upon a showing that at least an equivalent level of safety is provided.

(b) If a segment of track does not meet all of the requirements for its intended class, it is to be reclassified to the next lower class of track for which it does meet all of the requirements of this subpart. If a segment does not meet all of the requirements for Class 6, the requirements for Classes 1 through 5 apply.

[63 FR 34029, June 22, 1998, as amended at 78 FR 16104, Mar. 13, 2013]


Download our app to see the most-to-date content.