A yellow signal in Train Simulator Classic means caution. Learn when to brake, what flashing yellows mean and how to avoid a SPAD.
In Train Simulator Classic, a yellow signal normally means caution: you may pass it, but must reduce speed and be prepared to stop at the next signal, which is expected to be red. The exact rule depends on the route’s signalling system; double yellow, flashing yellow and semaphore distant indications carry more specific meanings.
What should you do at a yellow signal?
At a yellow signal, acknowledge any cab warning, reduce power and begin braking early enough to stop before the next signal.
- Acknowledge the warning: On many British routes, AWS sounds a horn when you approach a caution aspect. With standard keyboard bindings,
Qacknowledges it; our keyboard control reference covers the relevant AWS and signaller commands. Acknowledging AWS does not cancel the caution. - Read the distance and gradient: Check the trackside signal, HUD distance, line speed and gradient. A heavy train descending a bank needs substantially more braking distance than a light multiple unit.
- Use a controlled brake application: Apply the service brake early rather than waiting until the red signal is close. Increase the application if the speed is not falling quickly enough.
- Keep a stopping margin: Plan to stop with the front of the locomotive clearly before the red signal, not alongside or beyond its post.
On a normal British colour-light route, a steady yellow does not impose one universal numerical speed. Your speed must be low enough to stop at the next signal while still respecting any separate speed restriction. Our practical guidance on braking and reading signals explains how to judge that approach without relying entirely on the HUD.
What do single, double and flashing yellow signals mean?
On British routes, the number and behaviour of the yellow lights tell you how far ahead the restrictive signal or junction lies.
| Indication | Typical meaning | Driver response |
|---|---|---|
| Steady single yellow | The next main signal is expected to be red. | Proceed cautiously and brake so you can stop at the next signal. |
| Steady double yellow | The next signal is expected to show single yellow, with a red signal beyond it. | Begin a controlled reduction in speed; do not wait for the single yellow before reacting. |
| Flashing double or single yellow | An approach-controlled diverging route is set ahead. The sequence leads towards a junction signal displaying the diverging route. | Prepare for the junction and its applicable speed, while continuing to observe the next aspect and route indicator. |
| Yellow semaphore distant at caution | One or more associated stop signals ahead are not clear. | Reduce speed and be ready to stop at the first stop signal. |
Not every route supports all these aspects, and custom routes may use signal scripts with different behaviour.
Does yellow mean the same on every Train Simulator Classic route?
No; Train Simulator Classic reproduces several national signalling systems, so colour alone is not always enough to interpret an aspect.
- British routes: A single yellow usually means the next main signal is at danger, while double yellow provides an earlier warning.
- North American routes: Yellow commonly represents an Approach-type indication, but the permitted speed and required action depend on the railway rule set modelled by that route.
- German and other continental routes: Signal position, accompanying lights, numbers and distant-signal indications can alter the meaning. Do not translate every yellow aspect directly into the British rule.
Consult the route or locomotive documentation when available. If an unfamiliar indication appears, adopt the most restrictive sensible interpretation until its meaning is clear.
Why did I still get a SPAD after seeing yellow?
A yellow signal authorises you to pass that yellow; it does not authorise passing the following red signal.
- Braking too late: A common mistake is waiting until the red enters view before making a serious brake application.
- Misjudging train length: The locomotive’s nose may pass the signal even though the cab viewpoint still appears short of it.
- Expecting the signal to clear: An AI train may vacate the block and cause an upgrade, but you must continue preparing to stop until the aspect actually changes.
- Trusting only the HUD: Treat the trackside signal as the controlling indication. If a custom scenario produces a disagreement, obey the more restrictive display.
Can you pass the red signal after a yellow?
You must stop at the following red signal unless it clears or the Train Simulator Classic signaller grants permission to pass it at danger.
If the scenario expects you to continue, stop short of the signal and use the request-to-pass command, normally Tab with standard controls. Move only after receiving permission, and proceed at restricted speed because the section ahead may be occupied. If permission is denied, wait and check the scenario objective, route setting and points rather than assuming the red signal is defective.