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ChuChuMan202 t1_itsot8o wrote

Reply to comment by MCStarlight in Does anyone know how to become a Metro train driver? by lord_guppy

The system was automated when it was built. However, the automated systems failed to the point of loss of life. Now, the system is operated manually.

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mriphonedude t1_iu3b5r4 wrote

This isn’t actually true, ATO hasn’t caused any crashes

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ChuChuMan202 t1_iu3l5yn wrote

ATO is just one subsystem of the Automatic Train Supervision (ATS) system. Automatic Train Protection (ATP) is what failed that led to the loss of life.

Even still, WMATA's ATO needs some work. It doesn't work like it is meant to when it is occasionally tested. Also, there have been some roadway worker protection procedure updates that make ATO unwieldy.

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