The intersection with the train tracks is located just feet off a major parkway, at the top of a quick uphill grade. While speed is likely not a factor in the two incidents, the two drivers would have come upon the intersection extremely quickly, and have split seconds to make a decision. Not only is the intersection extremely dark, it’s also paved – the tracks set-in the pavement – and the asphalt inexplicably *widening* around the point of the tracks. This makes the train tracks themselves more difficult to differentiate from roadway, and the critical flaw in my opinion: it gives the false impression that the paved roadway continues off to the left and right. There are few markings, and there is no opportunity to visualize the tracks at night before you are upon them… the tracks are under you *that* quickly, and you’re instantly stuck. Mistaken GPS directions give unfamiliar drivers the illusion that they are guided into a safe location, and this will compound the area’s design problems to deadly levels if something isn’t done.

I’m not saying these two were perfect, cautious drivers – but this will happen again if the area isn’t redesigned.

Also adding to the problem is this situation with emergency reporting: http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008810010367