The problem with trains is that they are stuck to a track. If someone tries to cross their track, or breaks down on the crossing, they are unable to swerve, or even slow down in time, they just crush everything that is in their path.
That’s why as drivers of cars or trucks it is so important that we concentrate on what we are doing, as we do have a lot more options that the train drivers. And irrespective of blame when a train hits a car, lorry or any other person or vehicle the poor train driver always feels terrible.
This video from a police cruiser details such an incident, where luckily no one was hurt, but it is worth the watch, just as a warning of what can happen in split seconds. Please don’t try and beat the train to a crossing, it’s just not worth it.