Home · Maps · About

Home > SubChat

[ Post a New Response | Return to the Index ]

[1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10>> : Last

 

Page 1 of 14

Next Page >  

(1338083)

view threaded

How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by SLRT on Thu Feb 5 09:14:04 2015

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
Having been a reader of NTSB reports going back 50 years (and reading the press) I've heard almost every possible way to somehow blame the railroad for accidents. The following list, without my comment, are some ways the railroad could "help" avoid or mediate these accidents:

  1. Eliminate all grade crossings;

  2. Use only overhead wire for electric lines;

  3. Severely restrict speed in grade crossing areas;

  4. Be prepared to stop at every grade crossing;

  5. Full stop, then proceed at every grade crossing;

  6. Lower crossing gates earlier, and use cameras/detectors to certify that the crossing area is clear before the train gets a clear signal for the crossing.


Except for (2) I have seen these all implemented or proposed at one time or another.





Post a New Response

(1338085)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by BrooklynBus on Thu Feb 5 09:21:34 2015, in response to How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by SLRT on Thu Feb 5 09:14:04 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
So far it doesn't appear to me that the railroad was anyway at fault. They should even be given credit that the train didn't derail and passengers commended them for their quick response, aiding the injured, and providing replacement bus service.

Post a New Response

(1338089)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by streetcarman1 on Thu Feb 5 09:58:53 2015, in response to How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by SLRT on Thu Feb 5 09:14:04 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
7. Have the lead car/locomotive equipped with some type of radar or sonar to detect any object ahead of the train.

Post a New Response

(Sponsored)

iPhone 6 (4.7 Inch) Premium PU Leather Wallet Case - Red w/ Floral Interior - by Notch-It

(1338094)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by steamdriven on Thu Feb 5 10:10:58 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by streetcarman1 on Thu Feb 5 09:58:53 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
#2 is the only one that makes economic and practical sense, and then not much. If overhead was cheaper than 3rd rail it would have been installed... and then there would be trucks occasionally brushing the 12K or 25K overhead wire...

You may as well station snipers at railroad crossings, to, err, kinetically educate anyone who blocks the box or beats the gates. That won't prevent every crash, but it will sharply reduce the number of remaining motorists who play such games.
/s

You can't prevent all accidents, especially when the general public with no real qualifications is allowed to operate motor vehicles.

Post a New Response

(1338098)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Olog-hai on Thu Feb 5 11:04:14 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by steamdriven on Thu Feb 5 10:10:58 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
If overhead was cheaper than 3rd rail it would have been installed

It is cheaper. However, Metro-North does not have enough Cosmopolitans to go around, and those are not cheaper than Metropolitans. Third rail was put in most likely for the sake of compatibility (and of course excuses to not run in the snow even though the NYC did).

Post a New Response

(1338100)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Karl M, Ex New Yorker on Thu Feb 5 11:19:35 2015, in response to How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by SLRT on Thu Feb 5 09:14:04 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
1, The cost to eliminate all grade crossings alone wouldn't allow it, but that would be the best solution. Karl

Post a New Response

(1338101)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Dutchrailnut on Thu Feb 5 11:42:00 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by streetcarman1 on Thu Feb 5 09:58:53 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
trains would be stopped at every crossing cause people would then knowingly go around gates, cause hey train is gone stop anyway.


Post a New Response

(1338102)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Dutchrailnut on Thu Feb 5 11:45:20 2015, in response to How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by SLRT on Thu Feb 5 09:14:04 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
crossing the tracks is not a railroad expense , any crossing, tunnel or overpass would have to be paid for by town.
try convincing the tax payers.
also at that location there would not be room for viaduct plus on off ramps to parkway.

Post a New Response

(1338103)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by VictorM on Thu Feb 5 11:49:20 2015, in response to How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by SLRT on Thu Feb 5 09:14:04 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
If a driver violates a flashing red grade crossing signal:
(1) Confiscate the vehicle
(2) Revoke the driver's license for five years

Post a New Response

(1338104)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Dutchrailnut on Thu Feb 5 11:51:14 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by VictorM on Thu Feb 5 11:49:20 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
even if you had camera's it would be hard proving who was driver, it only proves the car.


Post a New Response

(1338105)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by VictorM on Thu Feb 5 11:56:07 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by Dutchrailnut on Thu Feb 5 11:51:14 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
Enforce it the same way speeding is enforced: using a traffic officer, preferably in a hidden location. Of course you wouldn't catch every violator, but if drivers knew the penalty would be that severe, it would go a long way to geatly reducing grade crossing crashes.

Post a New Response

(1338106)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Broadway Lion on Thu Feb 5 11:56:31 2015, in response to How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by SLRT on Thu Feb 5 09:14:04 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
All the railroad needs to do is to put concrete barriers across the road. If the county wants automobile traffic, they will build bridges.

ROAR

Post a New Response

(1338107)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by steamdriven on Thu Feb 5 12:19:53 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by Olog-hai on Thu Feb 5 11:04:14 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
!

Huh. I should have guessed that lazyness and bureaucratic barcalounging was at the core of the issue, but was too naive.



Post a New Response

(1338108)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Dutchrailnut on Thu Feb 5 12:35:56 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by VictorM on Thu Feb 5 11:56:07 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
to many crossings not enough officers, people do figure a 50/50 chance of getting caught will not discourage them.


Post a New Response

(1338109)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Dutchrailnut on Thu Feb 5 12:37:55 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by Broadway Lion on Thu Feb 5 11:56:31 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
and first fire truck or ambulance that can not get to were its going is gone cost millions in lawsuits, railroads under federal rule have to provide access for crossings, they do not need to pay for it.


Post a New Response

(1338110)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by chud1 on Thu Feb 5 12:39:05 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by VictorM on Thu Feb 5 11:49:20 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
IAWTP!
chud1.
:).....

Post a New Response

(1338111)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by VictorM on Thu Feb 5 12:41:45 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by Dutchrailnut on Thu Feb 5 12:35:56 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
Then install a red light camera. Even though you couldn't tell who was the driver, if the car owner knew he/she would lose the vehicle, they would make sure whoever drove the car obeyed the law.

Post a New Response

(1338113)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Dutchrailnut on Thu Feb 5 12:57:30 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by VictorM on Thu Feb 5 12:41:45 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
but under US law the car owner does not have to provide guilt on himself or other driver, under US law a person is innocent until PROVEN guilty.

Post a New Response

(1338114)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by VictorM on Thu Feb 5 13:03:28 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by Dutchrailnut on Thu Feb 5 12:57:30 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
I'm not saying the car owner or other driver would lose his or her license, only that the car would be confiscated. The red light camera would prove it. If there are extenuating circumstances (if for example the car had been stolen and later recovered), tell it to the judge.

Post a New Response

(1338115)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Broadway Lion on Thu Feb 5 13:03:48 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by Dutchrailnut on Thu Feb 5 12:57:30 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
Just confiscate the automobile as evidence of trespassing. The owner allowed the automobile be used in a crime.

Post a New Response

(1338116)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by SLRT on Thu Feb 5 13:04:43 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by Dutchrailnut on Thu Feb 5 12:57:30 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
On red light cameras for speeding they charge the registrant of the vehicle the fine. Saying someone else was driving doesn't work unless you can show the car was stolen.

"Innocent" until proven guilty is not exactly how the law works or anyone charged with a crime could simply say "I'm innocent, so I won't show up for a trial; if you convict me, THEN you can come pick me up."

Have you ever gotten a ticket? You can pay the ticket or show up in court. Working people usually can't afford to do that.

Post a New Response

(1338117)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Broadway Lion on Thu Feb 5 13:04:56 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by Dutchrailnut on Thu Feb 5 12:37:55 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
But they can close unsafe crossings. They do that out here all of the time.

ROAR

Post a New Response

(1338118)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by MainR3664 on Thu Feb 5 13:15:32 2015, in response to How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by SLRT on Thu Feb 5 09:14:04 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
#1- Elimination of all grade crossings- at least on heavily used lines in busy areas, meaning almost all of MNRR and LIRR territory would be best, and should be a long-term goal, say over 20 years.

In the interim, #6 should be done, with #3 in place until #6 is in place.

#2 is ridiculous- it would be a nearly complete redesign of the railroads. I realize you're not endorsing it, but some politicians will. Debating it diverts resources from #1.

Post a New Response

(1338119)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by MainR3664 on Thu Feb 5 13:16:48 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by BrooklynBus on Thu Feb 5 09:21:34 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
I agree. But a systemic solution- eliminating grade crossings on heavily used lines in busy urban/suburban areas should, IMO, be a long-term goal.

Post a New Response

(1338120)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Dutchrailnut on Thu Feb 5 13:21:48 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by Broadway Lion on Thu Feb 5 13:03:48 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
would never stand first court case..


Post a New Response

(1338121)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Dutchrailnut on Thu Feb 5 13:25:21 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by SLRT on Thu Feb 5 13:04:43 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
When you pay a ticket you admit to guilt, read fine print.
Can you fine car, sure but again its upto police to prove who was driving, not for owner to prove he did not.
But no matter what punishment, current punishment of violating crossing rules is punishable by death and it still does not discourage people.

Post a New Response

(1338122)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by steamdriven on Thu Feb 5 13:25:30 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by SLRT on Thu Feb 5 13:04:43 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
Red light cameras have, in practice, proven to be a municipal shakedown racket. While they could, in theory, be used to enhance safety, in practice it's a way of skimming the motorist's wallet. This is tacitly acknowledged by the fact that the property (the vehicle) is assigned the ticket, so if you were not driving you are still liable.

Post a New Response

(1338123)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Dutchrailnut on Thu Feb 5 13:26:54 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by Broadway Lion on Thu Feb 5 13:04:56 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
until owner makes crossing safe, in Valhalla case crossing complied 100 % with rules so you your argument is null and void.


Post a New Response

(1338125)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Dutchrailnut on Thu Feb 5 13:28:16 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by MainR3664 on Thu Feb 5 13:15:32 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
we can't even afford maintaining our(US) current infrastructure never mind building new stuff.

Post a New Response

(1338126)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Dutchrailnut on Thu Feb 5 13:29:10 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by MainR3664 on Thu Feb 5 13:16:48 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
we don't even have money to maintain current infrastructure, never mind building new stuff.


Post a New Response

(1338128)

view threaded

How 3rd Rail Running Cummuter Rail Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Outside the Box on Thu Feb 5 13:53:24 2015, in response to How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by SLRT on Thu Feb 5 09:14:04 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
Avoided:
Grade crossing elimination, deployable hard barriers.

Ameliorated:
An inclined (~17% slope) steel and concrete ramp shield, in the shape of a C, that allows the 3rd rail shoes to pass through. In the event of a grade crossing collision, it would guide the car/truck/trailer over the 3rd rail, especially the 3rd rail ends.

Post a New Response

(1338132)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by steamdriven on Thu Feb 5 14:04:52 2015, in response to How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by SLRT on Thu Feb 5 09:14:04 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
There's an easier remedy which uses available, paid for equipment.

Increase track speed to 100 mph.
When the gates are down, run large, heavy vehicles weighing over 200 tons along the right of way, guided by the tracks so they cannot stray onto the surrounding roadway. The technology known as "trains" can fill this purpose. If practical, attach a 60 degree V-shaped diverter to the front of the train, so that vehicles and their fuel might be spun to the side rather than stuck onto the train.

If/when a spectacular car/train collision occurs, purchase the wrecked vehicle and embed it partly into the ground before the crossing. No explanation is necessary. As time goes on, the more hazardous crossings display a unique which people notice, rather than another "don't do that" message they ignore.

The public will soon educate themselves far more effectively than any additional cameras, fines, or other nagging.

Eliminating all ground level 3rd rail, or at least designing a deflector ramp before standing blunts ends for 1000 feet near grade crossings would be a decent idea, but neither is likely to happen.

Post a New Response

(1338135)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Broadway Lion on Thu Feb 5 14:27:37 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by Dutchrailnut on Thu Feb 5 13:21:48 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
It does not have to stand up in court. Just impound the car as evidence, bu the time the issue gets to court, the car will be obsolete anyway. Or the subject can plead guilty, pay the fine, and then get your car back.

ROAR

Post a New Response

(1338139)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by JayZeeBMT on Thu Feb 5 14:46:00 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by steamdriven on Thu Feb 5 14:04:52 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
We tried something similar in my EMS days, as an anti-drunk-driving campaign. The NYPD and FDNY staged dramatically mangled vehicles of drunken drivers at key locations, with signs warning motorists not to drink and drive. It didn't work. (sigh).

Post a New Response

(1338142)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by fdtutf on Thu Feb 5 14:56:59 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by steamdriven on Thu Feb 5 14:04:52 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
Or just revive this type of crossing signal.


Post a New Response

(1338143)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Outside the Box on Thu Feb 5 15:02:09 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by JayZeeBMT on Thu Feb 5 14:46:00 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
They could try again. With Twitter, Fb, Instagram, etc, they could blast out pictures of DWI and Texting while driving wrecks. They could also leave geotagged wrecks.

Post a New Response

(1338147)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by SLRT on Thu Feb 5 15:11:25 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by steamdriven on Thu Feb 5 14:04:52 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
With the rocket scientists we have running around, I could picture someone getting run over by a train angling themselves to get a video of it.

Post a New Response

(1338156)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Spider-Pig on Thu Feb 5 15:52:43 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by VictorM on Thu Feb 5 13:03:28 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
This is ridiculous. I shouldn't have my property taken because I lent it to someone who turned out to be an idiot.

Post a New Response

(1338157)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Dyre Dan on Thu Feb 5 15:56:00 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by VictorM on Thu Feb 5 11:49:20 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
A punitive "zero tolerance" approach is rarely the best way to solve problems. Let's wait until all the facts are in. Things that need to be looked at include the visibility of the flashing lights approaching the crossing, and the timing and speed of the arms descending to block the crossing. Would it be possible (and not outrageously expensive) to equip them with sensors so they will retract for a few seconds if they hit an obstruction? Or maybe just modify the bottom edge of the gate to have a convex shape (minimizing contact area) and a slippery finish so as not to present significant resistance to a car backing up or moving forward (depending on where the gate hits it) if the gate comes down on it.

Post a New Response

(1338164)

view threaded

Re: How 3rd Rail Running Cummuter Rail Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by j trainloco on Thu Feb 5 17:03:44 2015, in response to How 3rd Rail Running Cummuter Rail Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by Outside the Box on Thu Feb 5 13:53:24 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
Avoided:
Grade crossing elimination, deployable hard barriers.


I don't know that deployable hard barriers work here. In this case, the eyewitness accounts indicate that the driver was already beyond the barrier when the gates went down. Maybe a detection system that forced the train to slow down...

Ameliorated:
An inclined (~17% slope) steel and concrete ramp shield, in the shape of a C, that allows the 3rd rail shoes to pass through. In the event of a grade crossing collision, it would guide the car/truck/trailer over the 3rd rail, especially the 3rd rail ends.


I was thinking about this. With LIRR's over-running current collectors, it could simply be a non-conductive sloped end down into the ground, which would force everything over the third rail instead of into it. With the under running contact shoe of MNRR, it would be a bit more challenging, because if the shoe can get under the rail, something else can too.

Post a New Response

(1338165)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Fisk Ave Jim on Thu Feb 5 17:14:12 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by MainR3664 on Thu Feb 5 13:16:48 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
"...eliminating grade crossings on heavily used lines in busy urban/suburban areas should, IMO, be a long-term goal"

Agreed, but that will never happen, not in our lifetimes anyway.
Even if the $$$ was available, the suburban NIMBYs with dough & clout would never go for it.

Case in point: on the LIRR main line, from New Hyde Park to Hicksville,(MAS 80mph on that strech I believe) there are several heavily trafficked grade crossings. There were proposals to eliminate all the grade crossings. One was to elevate the line the way they did it on the Babylon Line. No good. The locals didn't want an elevated line running thru their back yards. The other proposal was to relocate the line in an open cut, similar to the Pt Washington Line in the Bayside area.
Again the NIMBYS screamed like hell being upset with the construction disruption that would ensue & THAT idea was scrapped

So whats going to happen?? Nothing, unless someone from a politically connected family gets killed. Thats preceisely what happened at the Herricks Rd Mineola grade crossing accident several years ago that killed 6 kids. Nowadays Herricks Rd runs under the tracks.

Post a New Response

(1338167)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Stephen Bauman on Thu Feb 5 17:27:44 2015, in response to How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by SLRT on Thu Feb 5 09:14:04 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
MN may have ameliorated the crash had its coach been more fire retardant. On the face, the fire appears to be similar to 9/11. The jet fuel that started the fire was consumed rather quickly. It was the contents of the buildings that kept it going to the point that the buildings collapsed.

Similarly, the 20 or 40 gallons in the gas tank should have been consumed rather quickly. I suspect that interior fittings kept the fire going. It will be interesting to see what the NTSB report turns up.

Westchester DOT and NYSDOT could have avoided the crash had they properly designed the traffic signal at Commerce St and the Taconic. Here's the scenario, based on sketchy initial reports. The driver proceeded while the gates and lights indicated it was safe to proceed. However, the driver ignored the VTL which permits drivers to proceed only when there is room for them to completely get across the tracks.

There is a traffic signal regulating the Commerce St & TSP intersection. It is 73 feet from the tracks. The standard operating procedure should be that this signal should be preempted to insure that no cars can be stuck on the tracks when a train is approaching. The sketchy initial reports indicate that the SUV driver was stuck in traffic, while the train was approaching. Otherwise, she would not have been stuck on the tracks when the gate came down.

It's fairly common to have a parallel RR and roadway in close proximity. There's a similar configuration in Queens between the Lower Montauk Branch and Rust St/56th Rd. There are stop signs on Rust/56th at the intersections of Maspeth Ave and 49th Streets. Rust/56th is the major traffic street but the stop signs are there. Their purpose is to guarantee that no car/truck is stuck on the Montauk Branch waiting for a gap to proceed onto or across Rust/56th.

Post a New Response

(1338169)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by LuchAAA on Thu Feb 5 17:54:42 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by Stephen Bauman on Thu Feb 5 17:27:44 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
Glad you brought up Montauk Branch.

A few years ago, DOT installed a traffic light on 88th Street just yards south of a grade crossing.

When the light is red, and there is a lot of traffic, cars always overlap the grade crossing, or come very close. Especially longer vehicles.

My friend hates that traffic light and I always tell him to write the NTSB.

Post a New Response

(1338171)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by LuchAAA on Thu Feb 5 18:07:29 2015, in response to How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by SLRT on Thu Feb 5 09:14:04 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
If you slow down trains passing grade crossings, it takes longer to clear the crossing.

Drivers learns this fast, and will then be more likely to challenge gates to avoid longer waits.

That's not good.



Post a New Response

(1338173)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Dutchrailnut on Thu Feb 5 18:45:29 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by Stephen Bauman on Thu Feb 5 17:27:44 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
And NTSB has already stated that crossing and pre-empt system of traffic lights worked as intended, all are equipped with even recorders.
Train was 2 miles under speed (58 mph)
crossing got activated 39 seconds before train got to crossing.
Engineer did blow correct horn sequence . and dumped it well in advance of impact point.



Post a New Response

(1338174)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Fisk Ave Jim on Thu Feb 5 19:20:41 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by Stephen Bauman on Thu Feb 5 17:27:44 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
"It will be interesting to see what the NTSB report turns up..."

Yes indeed. Even if the entire interior was completely constructed of fireproof materials (fire retardant required, big different from fireproof), you have to take into account that all the passengers were wearing heavy winter clothing & many carrying plastic laden laptops in leatherette carriers. Regardless of their surroundings, 20-40 gallons of flaming gasoline being propelled thru the interior of the car from the force of impact would have made instant casualties of anyone comming in contact with it.

But what I want to know is how that third rail got uprooted & propelled thru the body of the train.If continous welded third rail was in place at the site, would have that kept it from piercing the train?

Post a New Response

(1338177)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Wallyhorse on Thu Feb 5 19:41:19 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by Fisk Ave Jim on Thu Feb 5 17:14:12 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
Too bad in the cases of NIMBYs like that you can't make it clear to them these are SAFETY improvements that are needed and that if they try to block it and something like this crash occurred on a grade crossing, they could in the future be held criminally liable because they blocked the improvements needed out of pure selfishness. That would change the tune of a lot of NIMBYs in a hurry.

Post a New Response

(1338178)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Wallyhorse on Thu Feb 5 19:42:16 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by VictorM on Thu Feb 5 11:56:07 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
+1

That definitely would go a long way towards preventing, if not eliminating such crashes.

Post a New Response

(1338181)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Wallyhorse on Thu Feb 5 19:48:16 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by fdtutf on Thu Feb 5 14:56:59 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
Today that might very well work.

Post a New Response

(1338184)

view threaded

Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash

Posted by Fisk Ave Jim on Thu Feb 5 19:56:06 2015, in response to Re: How Railroad Could Have Avoided / Ameliorated Fiery Crash, posted by Wallyhorse on Thu Feb 5 19:41:19 2015.

edf40wrjww2msgDetail:detailStr
fiogf49gjkf0d
"they could in the future be held criminally liable..."
I agree, but the problem with that is who could you indict??

The NIMBYs out there have juice, which means nothing will get done.
But they'll scream like hell when they get stuck at a grade crossing. They want it both ways.

Sadly, out there, it'll take some more carnage to change minds.

Post a New Response

[1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10>> : Last

 

Page 1 of 14

Next Page >  


[ Return to the Message Index ]