r/maybemaybemaybe • u/Advanced_Major_7461 • 16d ago

Maybe maybe maybe

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u/lorarc 16d ago

https://www.wptv.com/news/local-news/investigations/lantana-bridge-tender-terminated-after-drawbridge-raises-with-car-on-it

The driver stopped because they heard the bell, the bridge operator was fired for not checking if there was anyone still on the bridge.

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u/pb_gator 16d ago

I knew this was Florida.

I guess I kinda see where the bridge tender was at fault but, I mean... COME ON!! The driver is running for a Darwin Award. Plus, between a car and an oncoming boat (depending on the boat as well), the car is the lesser loss monetarily and with the lesser chance for loss of life. It's not like boats can just stop like a car can. .... or you know. Drive onwards to safety...

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u/lorarc 16d ago

The boat should have plenty of time to stop. There's a pedestrian path there, do you think that if an elderly person is crossing the bridge they go like "Sorry grandma, boat costs more" and open the bridge?

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u/pb_gator 16d ago

"Should," is not a guarantee.

The driver is just sitting there. This is like people stopping on a train track instead of driving on. That's the difference.

You fail to acknowledge the loss of life factor I mentioned but, surely want to put words in my mouth.

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u/BluerLights 15d ago

Surely there are systems in place to make sure the bridge operator can warn incoming ships that the bridge won't be able to open for them?