Train Crash in Washington

[bookworm_020]

All the trains here in Sydney have dataloggers (black boxes) to record all speeds and actions of the drivers. The trains aren't automated, as the driver has full control at all times (well that is the theory!).

Signallers can hold a train at a red light or call them through to the next signal. But there is always one signal between trains. If you pass a signal at stop, two things happen, an alarm goes off at train headquarters, and the train's brakes get tripped and apply automaticly. If you don't have authority to pass the signal, the driver can expect to be hauled over the coals and even fired.

There has been multiply failures in this accident. To just blame the driver is a poor man's way of hidding the truth. After a couple of bad crashes here in Sydney alot of leasons were learned, but some of them were slow to be acted upon, which caused futher problems.

I feel sorry for the family of the driver who died, and the one who lived. I'm a trainee driver here in Sydney and can only guess how they would be feeling.

[SteamWake]

Originally Posted by bookworm_020

All the trains here in Sydney have dataloggers (black boxes) to record all speeds and actions of the drivers. The trains aren't automated, as the driver has full control at all times (well that is the theory!).

Signallers can hold a train at a red light or call them through to the next signal. But there is always one signal between trains. If you pass a signal at stop, two things happen, an alarm goes off at train headquarters, and the train's brakes get tripped and apply automaticly. If you don't have authority to pass the signal, the driver can expect to be hauled over the coals and even fired.

There has been multiply failures in this accident. To just blame the driver is a poor man's way of hidding the truth. After a couple of bad crashes here in Sydney alot of leasons were learned, but some of them were slow to be acted upon, which caused futher problems.

I feel sorry for the family of the driver who died, and the one who lived. I'm a trainee driver here in Sydney and can only guess how they would be feeling.

These trains are supposed to have all that except that one of these were 'older' models and did not have the data loggers installed. For whatever reason the ABS failed.

[Max2147]

The driver on the Red Line train engaged the emergency brakes: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn...062300653.html

The NTSB said there was evidence on the tracks that the brakes had indeed been used, so it looks like it was just too late. Given the issues I mentioned before that would have obstructed the driver's vision (curve, bridge, shadows, chain link fence), it's not really surprising.

A lot of Metro's dirty laundry is also coming out for everybody to see. The NTSB has been on Metro's case a lot over safety issues, but Metro doesn't have a dedicated funding source, so they don't have the money to implement changes.

[SteamWake]

Originally Posted by Max2147

The driver on the Red Line train engaged the emergency brakes: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn...062300653.html

The NTSB said there was evidence on the tracks that the brakes had indeed been used, so it looks like it was just too late. Given the issues I mentioned before that would have obstructed the driver's vision (curve, bridge, shadows, chain link fence), it's not really surprising.

A lot of Metro's dirty laundry is also coming out for everybody to see. The NTSB has been on Metro's case a lot over safety issues, but Metro doesn't have a dedicated funding source, so they don't have the money to implement changes.

Again are there no signals either trackside or in cab? In a train if you have to wait till you 'see' an obsticle its already too late.

[Max2147]

I don't know how Metro signaling works. They run on dedicated tracks, so it could be very different than what you find on a normal train line.

The local media have not mentioned any system like the one bookworm described, so I suspect it doesn't exist.

From the article I posted: "Metro's automated system is built around electronic relays on the trains and buried along the track that allow onboard computers to control speeds and stop trains from getting too close to one another."

I'm not sure if that system is in addition to or in lieu of traditional signaling.

[bookworm_020]

Originally Posted by Max2147

I don't know how Metro signaling works. They run on dedicated tracks, so it could be very different than what you find on a normal train line.

I would be surprised to find that much of a difference if there are drivers involved, With the couple of automatic systems I know of, they still have visual signals next to the track, regardless of any warning system on the train.

From the article I posted: "Metro's automated system is built around electronic relays on the trains and buried along the track that allow onboard computers to control speeds and stop trains from getting too close to one another."

I'm not sure if that system is in addition to or in lieu of traditional signaling.

Sounds like in addition to traditional signaling.

These trains are supposed to have all that except that one of these were 'older' models and did not have the data loggers installed. For whatever reason the ABS failed.

Same thing happened here with the waterfall accident. They had been installed but were still been tested and could be switched off, and many had been. (can't be done now!)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waterfall_rail_accident

I know form some of the drivers and guards who had worked with this set G7(train) that it had a bad reputation. It would apply power despite brake applications and dropping the dead man's handle/foot peddle.

[SteamWake]

Track Sensors Fail Tests During Investigation of D.C. Train Crash

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,529067,00.html

Begs the question how long have they been in disrepair and why wasent it noticed before?