What must a local operating in Rule 251 territory do after passing a Clear Signal and stopping to switch?

In Rule 251 territory, once a local has passed a Clear Signal and then stops to switch, the correct course of action is to prepare to stop at the next signal. This is important for maintaining safety and adhering to operating procedures on the railroad.

Once the local has passed a Clear Signal, this indicates that the track ahead is clear; however, after stopping for any switching activities, the train must be cautious about its next movement. By preparing to stop at the next signal, the crew acknowledges that there might be a change in signal aspects that could require them to halt, ensuring they are prepared for any potential instructions or signals they may encounter, which may not be communicated until they approach the next signal.

Other options involve actions that do not align with the protocols necessary to ensure operational safety and compliance. For instance, proceeding without stopping may pose a safety risk, especially if signals change unexpectedly. Additionally, while obtaining a new signal before proceeding might be necessary in some contexts, it does not directly relate to the specific actions required after stopping, as the local is already in a position to assess the status of the upcoming signals. Checking train weight is important for overall safety and operations but is not directly relevant to the immediate requirement after passing a Clear Signal.