Almost
all of each sub-division special instructions stated the distance the flagman
must go back and it was generally 2 1/2 miles. If a train knew they were
going to be stopped in non-signaled territory, they would generally drop the
flagman off and he would put down his torpedoes and return to
1/2 of the distance where he would stay until recalled. If he stopped a
train, the 2nd train would drop their flagman off and pull up to the way car of
the first train. The 2nd train's flagman would go back the required
distance and but down torpedoes and return to 1/2 the distance and so forth.
The maximum speed in non-signalled territory was 49 MPH. so the 2 1/2
mile rule provided adequate protection. Most accidents were caused by
"short flagging" where the flagman was not at the required flagging
distance. When a train knew it would be stopping, the rear end crew would
drop off lighted 10 minute fusees frequently which would give the flagman some
time to get in position.