Signal Statute: 49 U.S.C. 20501, et seq.
§ 20501. Definition
In this chapter, "signal system" means a block signal
system, an interlocking, automatic train stop, train control, or
cab-signal device, or a similar appliance, method, device, or system
intended to promote safety in railroad operations.
§ 20502. Requirements for installation and use
(a) Installation.--(1) When the Secretary of
Transportation decides after an investigation that it is necessary in
the public interest, the Secretary may order a railroad carrier to
install, on any part of its railroad line, a signal system that
complies with requirements of the Secretary. The order must allow the
carrier a reasonable time to complete the installation. A carrier may
discontinue or materially alter a signal system required under this
paragraph only with the approval of the Secretary.
(2)
A railroad carrier ordered under paragraph (1) of this subsection to
install a signal system on one part of its railroad line may not be
held negligent for not installing the system on any part of its line
that was not included in the order. If an accident or incident occurs
on a part of the line on which the signal system was not required to
be installed and was not installed, the use of the system on another
part of the line may not be considered in a civil action brought
because of the accident or incident.
(b) Use.--A
railroad carrier may allow a signal system to be used on its railroad
line only when the system, including its controlling and operating
appurtenances--
(1) may be operated safely without unnecessary risk of personal injury; and
(2) has been inspected and can meet any test prescribed under
this chapter.
§ 20503. Amending regulations and changing requirements
The
Secretary of Transportation may amend a regulation or change a
requirement applicable to a railroad carrier for installing,
maintaining, inspecting, or repairing a signal system under this
chapter--
(1) when the carrier files with the Secretary a request for the amendment or change and the Secretary approves the request; or
(2) on the Secretary's own initiative for good cause shown.
§ 20504. Inspection, testing, and investigation
(a) Systems in use.--(1) The Secretary of Transportation
may--
(A) inspect and test a signal system used by a railroad carrier; and
(B) decide whether the system is in safe operating
condition.
(2) In carrying out this subsection, the
Secretary may employ only an individual who--
(A) has no interest in a patented article required to be used on or with a signal system; and
(B) has no financial interest in a railroad carrier or in a
concern dealing in railroad supplies.
(b) Systems
submitted for investigation and testing.--The Secretary may
investigate, test, and report on the use of and need for a signal
system, without cost to the United States Government, when the system
is submitted in completed shape for investigation and testing.
§ 20505. Reports of malfunctions and accidents
In
the way and to the extent required by the Secretary of
Transportation, a railroad carrier shall report to the Secretary a
failure of a signal system to function as intended. If the failure
results in an accident or incident causing injury to an individual or
property that is required to be reported under regulations prescribed
by the Secretary, the carrier owning or maintaining the signal system
shall report to the Secretary immediately in writing the fact of the
accident or incident.
| File Type | application/msword |
| File Title | Signal Statute: 49 U |
| Author | rbrogan |
| Last Modified By | rbrogan |
| File Modified | 2005-03-07 |
| File Created | 2005-03-07 |