Trains Honk Once Instead of Four at Crossings for Quieter Rides
Published Date: 7/1/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
Train engineers usually have to blow their horns in a specific pattern when crossing roads, but this new rule lets them sound just one blast instead. This change helps trains near public road crossings and makes things simpler without messing with safety. It’s a smart move that saves time and cuts down on noise, with no extra costs for anyone.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Engineers Allowed Single Horn Blast
This proposed rule lets locomotive engineers replace the required four-blast pattern (two long, one short, one long) with a single horn blast when trains, locomotive consists, or individual locomotives have stopped in close proximity to a public highway-rail grade crossing and then enter onto and cross that crossing.
Reduced Horn Noise Near Crossings
The proposal allows trains that have stopped in close proximity to a public highway-rail grade crossing to sound one single horn blast (instead of two long, one short, one long) as they enter and cross, which reduces recurring horn noise for people living or spending time near those public crossings.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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