Originally Posted by
Name User
The only reason trains are still operated by humans is because of...drum roll...regulation! The feds won't release the RRs from their version of the FARs.
Lots of near crashes as well. All pilot error induced. Yeah, the pilot prevented it, but that is like saying you prevented a car wreck by swerving out of oncoming traffic...after falling asleep.
I think it has to do with safety as well. A train can't block a city/town/highway in the event of emergency or other type situation where first responders need access. It still takes people on the scene to stop the train, set brakes, and break the train into sections that will open up roads allowing access/egress.