DRA
Driver's Reminder Appliance
Glowing red dashboard button that physically cuts traction to prevent starting against a red signal.
Driving Difficulty
Level 1 / 5
Beginner
Based on vigilance required, reaction window, and braking penalty severity.
menu_book System Overview
DRA is a manual safety switch mandatory in all British driver cabs. Designed to prevent starting-away SPADs (passing red signals after passenger station stops), it isolates the traction circuit.
settings How It Operates
- check_circle When stopping at a station or junction where the next signal is at Danger (Red), the driver pushes the DRA button.
- check_circle The button illuminates bright red and disables throttle and traction power.
- check_circle Once the signal clears to green or yellow, the driver resets the DRA button to restore power before setting off.
- check_circle Helps avoid the psychological trap of seeing station departure signals and accelerating toward an unseen red.
visibility In-Cab Visual & Audio Indications
notifications
Red Glowing Pushbutton
Illuminates bright red when engaged, indicating traction is disconnected.
lightbulb Driver Tips to Avoid Penalty Brakes
- verified Adopt real-world British driving protocol: whenever stopping at a red signal or station platform facing a red signal, press the DRA immediately.
- verified Remember to turn off the DRA when you get a green aspect, or the train will not respond to the throttle!
