This part prescribed reporting requirements with respect to methods of train operation, block signal systems, interlockings, traffic control systems, automatic train stop, train control, and cab signal systems, or other similar appliances, methods, and systems.

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, this part applies to railroads that operate on standard gage track which is part of the general railroad system of transportation.

(b) This part does not apply to rail rapid transit operations conducted over track that is used exclusively for that purpose and that is not part of the general system of railroad transportation.

Each carrier shall report within 24 hours to the Federal Railroad Administration by toll free telephone, number 800-424-0201, whenever it learns of the occurrence of an accident/incident arising from the failure of an appliance, device, method or system to function or indicate as required by part 236 of this title that results in a more favorable aspect than intended or other condition hazardous to the movement of a train.

Each carrier shall report within 15 days each failure of an appliance, device, method, or system to function or indicate as required by part 236 of this title that results in a more favorable aspect than intended or other condition hazardous to the movement of a train. Form FRA F6180-14, “Signal Failure Report,” shall be used for this purpose and completed in accordance with instructions printed on the form.

Any person (an entity of any type covered under 1 U.S.C. 1, including but not limited to the following: a railroad; a manager, supervisor, official, or other employee or agent of a railroad; any owner, manufacturer, lessor, or lessee of railroad equipment, track, or facilities; any independent contractor providing goods or services to a railroad; and any employee of such owner, manufacturer, lessor, lessee, or independent contractor) who violates any requirement of this part or causes the violation of any such requirement is subject to a civil penalty of at least $1,086 and not more than $35,516 per violation, except that: Penalties may be assessed against individuals only for willful violations, and, where a grossly negligent violation or a pattern of repeated violations has created an imminent hazard of death or injury to persons, or has caused death or injury, a penalty not to exceed $142,063 per violation may be assessed. Each day a violation continues shall constitute a separate offense. See FRA's website at www.fra.dot.gov for a statement of agency civil penalty policy.

Whoever knowingly and willfully—

(a) Makes, causes to be made, or participates in the making of a false entry in reports required to be filed by this part; or

(b) Files a false report or other document required to be filed by this part is subject to a $5,000 fine and 2 years imprisonment as prescribed by 49 U.S.C. 522 and 49 U.S.C. 21311.