How much training do new metro drivers receive prior to taking over a train? This morning, on the redline, the train pulled up to Gallery Place and stops only halfway down the platform and stops. Everyone had to run to the first car (the only one we could get to) and it was, of course, packed. The train then proceeded to Metro Center and the train blew right by the stop into the next tunnel. Then abruptly stopped in the middle of the tunnel where we stopped for about five minutes and then backed up to the Metro Center station so people could get off. Farragut North went ok but then when we stopped at Dupont Circl - he pulled so far forward that the driver was in the tunnel. There wasn't any announcements or comments from the driver the entire time though he did announce most of the stops (except Metro Center because he drove by it).

What's the deal?

From Dr. Gridlock: Sarah, that sounds like Mr. Toad's Wild Ride on the Red Line. Can you place the time a bit more exactly, or do you recall a car number on the train? Did it appear that doors were opening in the tunnel?

Why was this also delaying the yellow, blue, and orange lines?

I had a similar (though not as bad) experience on the Greenline Wednesday morning around 8:50 - the driver blew past the L'Enfant Plaza stop, paused under the tunnel where the driver then told everyone that the train would not be stopping at L'Enfant (um we noticed!), and then continued forward to the Waterfront station stop. Everyone who was planning on switching to the orange and blue lines like me had to get off and take the next train going in the other direction. At least the previous poster's driver backed up!

They can back up?

wow...I didnt know they could reverse. I had a similar incident happen to me a couple of weeks ago...

check the blog entry, with video...
http://wtfmetro.blogspot.com/2008/07/my-adventure-from-last-friday.html