Max Wyss --
Are you saying that a locomotive-pulled
train is no better at protecting passengers
in a crash than an EMU? That cannot be true!
Mass matters a lot. And, yes, I detest push-pull
operating for that very reason.

About cars on grade crossings: that WILL happen,
so transit planners MUST take that into account.
Saying it shouldn't happen is unrealistic and
misses the point.

And, for the record, I oppose high-speed rail.
It is much too expensive and will serve only
the 1%. It is not even necessary, not as much as
well-staffed police and fire departments are, and
not nearly as much as well-run and properly-
staffed public schools are, and certainly not
nearly as much as an excellent water and sewer
and electric and gas infrastructure is. We need
those things MUCH more than we will ever need
high-speed rail.