http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&cid=573&ncid=757&e=5&u=/nm/20040928/od_nm/train_dc
Wow! Now that’s what we need here in the U.S! Great story, though not to dimini***he poor guy who was seriously hurt.
The railroads in the U.S and Canada, IMHO, should seek damages from those that decide to beat the train to the crossing and instead get whacked. The exception of course would be the “rare” instance where the railroad could be at fault, such as thick brushes blocking warning gates.
Not trying to be “cold” about this issue, but my pressure goes up everytime I read a story where some “bleeding heart” tried to race the train, or had his/her stereo blasting at 200+ decibels…AND LOST. Then, has the audacity to sue the railroad anyway. The railroads, of course, wind up just settling out of court.
IMHO, anyone who pulls their vehicle in front of a train should be tried for attempted murder/manslaughter…especially when Amtrak is involved. That person instantly jeopardizes the lives of the crew (and passengers) when he/she risks the odds to prove how stupid they are. It was rumored that Florida was going to make this a law after several Amtrak crossing incidents (and subsequent derailments), but it never came to fruition. (or did it?)
Then there’s the person(s) who mysteriously walks their way in front of a non-existent train…(I swear I didn’t hear the horn, or see the four 500-watt halogen bulbs Mr Policeman)