When operating a train, what should the operator do if they see a visible obstruction?

Stopping the train immediately is the appropriate response when an operator sees a visible obstruction on the tracks. This action prioritizes safety, ensuring that both the passengers and crew remain unharmed and that the train does not collide with the obstruction. By stopping, the operator can assess the situation accurately, determine the nature of the obstruction, and make informed decisions about next steps, such as signaling for assistance or rerouting.

Choosing to speed up to clear the obstruction is reckless; it could lead to a collision that endangers lives and damages equipment. Continuing at the same speed is similarly dangerous, as it fails to acknowledge the immediate hazard. While signaling for assistance may be necessary after stopping, it should not be the first action taken when confronted with a clear danger on the tracks. Thus, halting the train provides the safest and most responsible course of action in the presence of an obstruction.