Yes, I realize that the cab car was not involved in this instance, but mentioned it as this is the type of accident that makes the concept of cab car safety a topic. Also, sometimes the accident is so severe the effects exceed the relevance of equipment construction. While I have never operated a cab car, I have ridden up front in them, and the concerns from engineers & others are real. Personally, I just don't care for them.

Are operations with cab cars & safety different in the Chicago area compared to California & Seattle?

Operating practices and different right-of-ways in Europe make comparisons with American practices not very equal. I don't believe that the TGV or ICE trains have the opportunities to side swipe, rear-end or head-end a short & light train of "goods wagons". I haven't been there, so I'm not sure.