What is the appropriate speed for a train passing over diverging routes?

The appropriate speed for a train passing over diverging routes is typically limited to ensure safety and maintain the integrity of the track infrastructure. A speed of 10 MPH for diverging routes strikes a balance between safety and efficiency.

Diverging routes require trains to navigate a turn away from the main line, which introduces additional forces on the train and the tracks. By limiting the speed to 10 MPH, operators can minimize the risks associated with these movements, such as derailment or excessive wear on the rail infrastructure.

In practice, this speed allows for adequate stopping distance should the need arise, while also providing a manageable pace for the locomotive and its cargo or passengers during the transition on a diverging track. Higher speeds could lead to unsafe conditions, which is why this lower speed limit is emphasized for trains passing through diverging routes.