[alarm rider]

I seem to recall that a few years back, a train operator was killed because he could not stop a train manually. It's a bit unclear in my mind, but I remember it was during the winter, perhaps a snow event.

Anyway, I also seem to remember that Metro gave the operators the option to control the train. I have to check that, I could be wrong.

I know for sure there is a “dead man's switch” which stops the train if the operator becomes unable to control the train.

Anyway, my gut sense tells me that this was a signal failure. I believe the signals are computer operated. I think, and I repeat, I think that the operators have the last call on stopping the train.

This accident happened on a slight uphill grade and slight curve. It may be possible that the train operator got a “go ahead” and stayed at speed until it was too late to brake.

Once again, this is conjecture on my part along with a few years experience riding the trains.

Regards,
AR

[Brytani]

Fox Channel 5 DC has been reporting the struck train was empty on the track and was hit full speed by the passenger filled train.

If those reports are accurae this sounds like a horrible tragedy made by a combination of human and technological error. Not that the casue will make a bit of differene to those who are hurt and the families of those who have lost a loved-one.