[Resolution]

After watching the TV programme the other night, it seems that whilst the driver was "on the phone" to another train crew member there were other factors involved.

The train was a "Hybrid" ...... not a true HST.

The electric power cars at each end were suplimented by a heavy diesel power car after and before each one. These it seems, had a higher centre of gravity than the rest of the train and came off the rails first due to its overspeed, dragging the rest of the train with it.

So, it seems that various factors were involved. One thing that wasn't mentioned however (apart from the lack of ERTS) safety system was: Given that on that section of track which had no working HST signaling and safety equipment was present.

I thought:.....The driver was being distracted by a phone call from a member of the crew. Under these circumstances, shouldn't this driver have had a second man with him?

Who decided and enforced the fact that he did not?

Would you be happy with just one pilot in your next flight?