Engineering360: "Automated controls could have prevented this fatal Amtrak accident"

It almost sounds like better signage might go a long way to improve safety.

Only one sign warning of a speed reduction from 80 MPH to 30 MPH? Consider how many signs would be on a typical interstate highway for speed reductions of that magnitude, corner warnings, etc.?

Talk about a low-tech solution.

Positive train control (PTC) is certainly worth pursuing, but better signs can be implemented tomorrow.

After reading about this accident, I found myself wondering why the data for rail lines aren't on the GPS units which seem to have the speed limit on nearly every roadway. It would be quite straightforward to have a version that would provide sufficient warning to alert the engineer about a speed limit change. Other than mapping the rail lines and the associated speed limits, the unit would need to have both a visual (which most units have) and an audible warning.

It's been done for highways; there is no excuse for not doing it for the railways

I just think someone should say the engineer and Conductor are ultimately the people who could/should have prevented this accident. The more we rely on technology to relieve human responsibility the more irresponsible humans we create. If I put myself in their position I would certainly feel totally responsible not slowing the train. As a first time engineer does it not dictate an even more cautious, and more attentive mind set than the seasoned professional. Must we keep lowering standards to accommodate incompetence?

If, for instance, the train's brakes failed or the tracks failed unexpectedly then perhaps another culprit is at fault

I'm sorry if my comment is harsh to those involved but feel it must be said. People in such positions must be alert, awake and aware that lives depend on their actions, or inactions.

If they are not willing to accept these conditions they should be content with more menial employment.

UJ

Sweden and Norway has had the ATC, Automatic Train Control, in operation since 1980, assisting the engineer with speed-signaling on a control panel, also taking active control of the brakes if speed is exceeded performing a braking action with regards to actual train braking ability.