BRIGHTON, Colo. — Investigators say the death of a woman photographing Union Pacific steam locomotive No. 844 July 21 suggests the woman was more focused on her cellphone screen than the approaching train. In an interview, the woman’s hus...
http://trn.trains.com/news/news-wire/2018/08/05-investigators-rule-up-844-excursion-death-accidental-family-agrees
Brian Schmidt, Editor, Classic Trains magazine
It doesn't matter if this episode was ruled an accident or not, it still could cost other operators more for insurance in the future. Hard to decide which is the bigger tragedy.
rrnut282 It doesn't matter if this episode was ruled an accident or not, it still could cost other operators more for insurance in the future. Hard to decide which is the bigger tragedy.
As I have posted earlier, I do regularly shout at motorists in passing cars without headlights lit at dusk or night. (Lights in English, Ore in Hebrew, Nuur in Arabic) Some do not bother.
May I suggest that if you see anyone near or on rail or transit property that is in a location or situation where an accident could happen that you do your very best to warn the individual. Even you can expect a report like "I'm no dummy and know enough to move upon any indication of a train approaching."
daveklepper As I have posted earlier, I do regularly shout at motorists in passing cars without headlights lit at dusk or night. (Lights in English, Ore in Hebrew, Nuur in Arabic) Some do not bother. May I suggest that if you see anyone near or on rail or transit property that is in a location or situation where an accident could happen that you do your very best to warn the individual. Even you can expect a report like "I'm no dummy and know enough to move upon any indication of a train approaching."
Oh God, Railfan behavior around railroad property.....
Back when I was still a kid I boarded a C&NW train at Northwestern Station in Chicago to see my Aunt in Elmhurst, IL. Low and behold there was a railfan at the stations very throat system of switches and crossovers taking pictures on incomming and outgoing trains. Finally, someone from C&NW pulled him back to the passenger platforms and gave him a good scolding.
I recently rode that Rock Island Rocket excursion there was some guy in my car bragging about openly arguing with the Hobbyist Crew attempting to run the train safely. He knew better and had to argue with the folks in charge to let them know. Yet another example why I avoid some of these "railfan" excursions.
Situational awareness is a key. Even at a place like Elmhurst station, you still need to know what's going on. Multiple trains through the station are not uncommon and you don't want to do anything stupid.
daveklepperEven you can expect a report like "I'm no dummy and know enough to move upon any indication of a train approaching."
I suspect a two to five word phrase with one or more assorted expletives is the more likely response one would get.
They won't hurt you. Take it and know you've done the right thing regardless.
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