This was Grade crossing accident which was not caused by big bad train swerving off the track, or a collision with another train. Automobile had to be on the right of way in order to be struck by the train. Too bad the media and the public do not understand that grade crossing accidents are normally the fault of the driving public. That locomotive engineer did not go on duty this morning saying, "I'm going out there to bag myself an automobile or a truck!"

It is also quite common for the media to report that the train struck the vehicle. However it is frequently the case that the vehicle drove into the side of the train, or tried to beat the train at a crossing. Anyone dumb enough to get hit by anything as large and loud as a train should not be driving. Even at unprotected crossings, drivers should be extra careful. If the incident occurs at other than a grade crossing, then it becomes a trespasser incident. A vehicle should not be fouling any tracks away from a grade crossing. Too bad so few drivers know anything about Operation Lifesaver.

Advance Starpacer