Why Rail Traffic Sometimes Doesn't Follow the Road Traffic Rules

Trains, whether for passenger or freight transport, are often seen as a crucial part of the transportation network. Their layout and functioning can vary significantly depending on the region. Interestingly, while road traffic follows specific rules based on the country, rail traffic has its unique flexibility and exceptions. This article delves into why rail traffic sometimes does not follow the same direction as road traffic, highlighting differences and the reasons behind these variations.

Right-Hand Rail Traffic in America

In North America, particularly in the United States, rail traffic generally follows the right-hand rule. This is especially true for commuter rail systems such as New Jersey Transit, where track allocation is designed for easier passenger navigation and efficient rerouting. Let's explore how this works.

For instance, in New Jersey, passenger rail systems like NJ Transit typically use the right-hand track. This setup makes it easier for passengers to understand which track they need to board based on their direction of travel. However, each track is signalled in both directions. This means that if a track needs to be closed for construction or an emergency, the oncoming train can wait at the station and continue on the other track. This flexibility ensures continuous service even when operational issues arise.

Left-Hand Rail Traffic in the UK and Other Countries

Surprisingly, the United Kingdom and many former British colonies follow the left-hand rule, much like road traffic. This tradition dates back to the British invention of railways. In countries like the UK, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, India, and even parts of Africa, trains generally run on the left side of the tracks.

The Channel Tunnel, for example, was designed to handle trains moving on the left, as both the UK and France follow this practice. While most countries align with the standard left-hand rule, there are notable exceptions and historical anomalies that influence track direction.

Exceptions and Historical Anomalies

Despite the general rule, there are some fascinating anomalies where rail traffic and road traffic follow different rules. For example, in the United States, rail traffic is predominantly on the right, but there are situations, especially with freight railroads, where the tracks are used in a seemingly random manner.

In the Raritan Valley Line between Roselle Park and Union, NJ Transit shares tracks with Conrail (a freight railroad). Since freight railroads don't need to worry about passenger confusion, they can use any track in either direction. As a result, the NJ Transit track usage here is completely random, relying on destination signs to guide passengers.

Moreover, in Italy, trains generally move on the left, making them an exception to the right-hand traffic rule followed by road vehicles. This is due to the influence of British engineers who built the first railroads in Italy.

Another interesting example is the Savoy Hotel intersection in London, where traffic historically followed the right-hand rule despite the standard practice of driving on the left. This anomaly can be attributed to an unusual history of road layout and traffic control.

Conclusion

Besides the standard right-hand and left-hand rules followed by rail and road traffic, there are unique situations and historical reasons that influence rail traffic direction. Understanding these variations can provide valuable insights into the complexities of transportation infrastructure and how different systems are designed to optimize efficiency and safety.