Ditch Lights - DCCWiki

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Short Definition

Low mounted headlights which illuminate the ditches on the sides of the ROW.

Ditch Lights are small headlights mounted on the pilot, designed to illuminate the portion of the right of way not normally illuminated by the headlight beam.

First appearing in Canada, where it was noticed that when the ditch lights were on while approaching a road crossing the ROW, motorists assumed the train was much closer and didn't attempt to beat the train when crossing the track. After investigating their effectiveness in reducing collisions with automobiles, regulations were drafted requiring the ditch lights be illuminated whenever the train approaches a level crossing.

In time this practice was adopted in the United States.

Also See: FX_Lighting

CPR 2816 Locomotive, with ditch lights on the pilot. They can be disabled/removed for photography purposes.