How do track warrants interact with interlocking signals?

• A. Warrants authorize movement on track segments that may be controlled by interlocking, but the movement must comply with interlocking signals and route constraints.
• B. Warrants override interlocking signals in all cases.
• C. Interlocking is not involved.
• D. Only for mainline.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that track warrants give you permission to occupy a defined piece of track, but that permission only holds if the interlocking allows it. Interlocking signals control entry into and movement through junctions and routes by setting the route and showing the proper signal aspect. So, a warrant can authorize you to move on a segment that may be protected by an interlocking, but you must still obey the interlocking signals and the route constraints that have been set. If a signal is red or the interlocking cannot be set to the requested route, you must stop, even if you have a valid warrant. When the interlocking does set the requested route, the corresponding signals will permit movement within the warrant’s authorized block, and you can proceed under the conditions specified in the warrant (such as speed or track limits). In short, warrants authorize movement within defined limits, but they do not override interlocking signals or route protections.