The timing of the signals and crossing barriers were off, taking responsibility OFF the float driver. Additionally, due to a sound ordinance in that area, the bells were all but silent. Total "comedy" of errors that cost lives, and the float driver will have to live with his self-imposed guilt for the rest of his life. His mistake was in not taking the precaution of not following the other vehicles so closely and becoming stopped on the tracks, which is a MAJOR bad idea, of course. But, then again, oft times float drivers are under the mistaken impression that the entire parade route has been "cleared" of traffic and other hazards they need to worry about.

So it's not against the law to drive into a RR crossing after the lights and bells have started and the barriers are coming down? Guess I haven't kept up with changes in the law.