Subway question for New Yorkers

Another person was killed yesterday on NYC's subway tracks. He was pushed and then was run over by a train. It was a tragic event, and one seen all too often on the subways.

But every time this happens, I wonder about something. We (NY'ers) have all stood on subway platforms, waiting endlessly for trains. In those off-moments, when you look across the tracks to the platform on the other side, you see a space under the platform. Looks fairly roomy, too.

So why can't someone who is on the tracks and sees a train coming, scoot into the relative shelter of the space under the platform? It seems to me that would keep a person safe. No? It's been a while since I was on a subway platform. What do you think? Is this possible?

Post-New Year's addendum

There is one thing about New Year's that I think is useful -- watching those slideshows of who died during the past year.

To properly function in a given era, it's helpful to maintain an accurate list of who is still among us. Some departures literally change the world -- and only a fool does not take note of such changes.

So I concede this one utilitarian benefit to the "holiday" of New Year's. But that's the only one.