Track warrants that restrict authority must not be transmitted mechanically, unless ______.

• A. The train being restricted will not leave the point without receiving the track warrant.
• B. The train being restricted has already received prior authority.
• C. The train's movement is within yard limits.
• D. The train will stop briefly at the point.

Answer: (A)

Track warrants with restrictions are safety-sensitive because they limit how a train may operate on a track. Mechanical transmission of such warrants carries a higher risk of miscommunication or not being properly acknowledged. Therefore, it’s allowed only when the train that is restricted would not leave the point unless it first receives the track warrant. In that situation, using a mechanical method won’t enable the train to move beyond the point without obtaining the warrant, which keeps the movement under proper control. If the train could depart the point without the warrant, you wouldn’t rely on mechanical transmission—you’d need direct, explicit communication to ensure the crew has and understands the restriction before moving.