zipwize@comcast.net wrote:
> Recently, there was the high speed train wreak in Belgium, I know of another one in Boston due to "text messaging" on a cell phone. There was another in Washington DC due to"text messaging". With simple controls, and GPS tracking, couldn't these accidents be avoided? Why couldn't the controls of the train engineer be overridden when a mistake is made. Surely a simple collision avoidance system could be worked out on a fixed track with GPS trackers at each end of every train. How is it still possible for this to happen with today's technology? Is it a labor union requirement that the engineer is in sole control of the train? What corruption is preventing this automation from being applied? These accidents were caused by human mistakes. Now there are plans for a high speed rail system in California. A PIC could handle this. 
>
>   
I think that there are things like that in place already.   The driver  
is there in case they malfunction.  Other wise we would not need  
engineers or drivers.
I think that a simple device that would block or disrupt cell phone 
signals from the operators position would work.
Or better still something to detect cell phone signals from the 
operators position. It could shut down the train till the cell phone is 
turned off.  That would certainly stop the use of cell phones by drivers.

Or set STIFF federal laws in place for HARD prison time for the offenders.
BOB

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