How should trains behave when they encounter an out-of-service track adjacent to a station?

When trains encounter an out-of-service track adjacent to a station, the most appropriate behavior is to not stop at that station. This rule is in place primarily for safety reasons. The out-of-service track indicates that it is unsafe for trains to operate on that track, which may pose risks not only to the train but also to crew members and any maintenance activities that might be underway nearby.

Choosing to bypass the station ensures that the train does not inadvertently come to a halt in an area where there might be hazards associated with the out-of-service track. This would also help maintain the flow of train operations and minimize disruptions caused by unnecessary stops or potential emergencies.

The other options present approaches that could compromise safety or are not advisable in the situation described. For instance, speeding up could lead to unsafe conditions if an unexpected situation arises. Proceeding with caution might imply that stopping is still an option, which contradicts the rule of avoiding the station altogether. Lastly, waiting for clearance might not be practical in the context where a track is out of service, as the train should already be following the established protocol of not stopping at that station. Thus, the decision not to stop at that station when faced with an out-of-service track is consistent with safety protocols established