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HomePublic Utilities CodeDiv. 4Ch. 1Art. 5§ 7601 Railroad Derailer Sign Requirements

§ 7601 Railroad Derailer Sign Requirements

Public Utilities Code·California
AI Summary·Official Text·Key Terms·Related Statutes·References
AI SummaryVerified

§ 7601 Railroad Derailer Sign Requirements

Key Takeaways

  • •Railroad companies must put up a sign near any track switch that can derail a train.
  • •The sign must be big, clear, and say 'derail' in black letters on a white background.
  • •The sign has to be close to the switch—no more than 100 feet away.
  • •The government makes sure railroads follow this rule.

Example

A train is moving on the tracks and comes near a switch that can make it go off the rails.

There must be a big sign nearby that says 'derail' so the train workers know to be careful. If the sign is missing or too small, the railroad company can get in trouble.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source
View on CA.gov

§ 7601 Railroad Derailer Sign Requirements

Except as provided in Section 7602 every common carrier by railroad operating within this State shall maintain, on what is known as passing track sidings, a signboard in connection with each derailing switch or other derailing device, whether the derailer is operated where located or from a distance. The signboard shall be placed within 100 feet of the derailer and shall be constructed in either of two forms, viz: board five feet high and 10 inches wide, or sign constructed of two parts, one of which is an upright and the other a transverse board, the upright to be of sufficient height to securely fasten at the top thereof the transverse board, which shall be not less than two feet three inches long and seven inches wide and placed in such a manner that the upper side of the transverse board is not less than four feet above the ties. The board shall have painted thereon the word “derail” in large black letters on a white background. The commission shall enforce this section. (Enacted by Stats. 1951, Ch. 764.)

Last verified: January 23, 2026

Key Terms

derailing switchderailing devicecommissionroadin californiaconnectiondistance

Related Statutes

  • § 7614 Caboose Toilet Requirements
  • § 7607 Locomotive Headlight Requirements
  • § 7608 Railroad First Aid Kits
  • § 6001 Public Utility Franchise Conditions
  • § 7508 Railroad Property Transfer Rules

References

  • Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
  • California Legislature. Public Utilities Code. Section 7601.
View Official Source