What happens to the brakes when the deadman feature is activated?

When the deadman feature is activated, the brakes automatically apply. The deadman switch is a safety mechanism designed to ensure that the operator is alert and in control of the train. If the operator becomes incapacitated or fails to maintain contact with the controls, the deadman feature engages and activates the brakes. This is crucial for preventing accidents, as it ensures that the train will come to a stop if the operator is unable to manage the train effectively. Therefore, this automatic application of the brakes is a vital safety measure in train operations.