Nice picture.

I'm not trying to bash you, I'm only trying to speak for the crew...

Putting flares out is a courtesy, not a requirement. All streets crossings are protected by signs. The big sign that reads "Railroad Crossing" is all that is required to notify motorists that train tracks are ahead. There are no flashing lights and gates due to the speed and infrequency of the rail traffic on that line. If someone drives in to the side of a train, that's like running into a brick wall and then saying they didn't see it in front of them.