Tanya Brusse Fixed Route Product Manager TripSpark Technologies Inc. integrates with back-offi ce soft ware to improve on-time performance, A key benefi t of the devices is that they reduce liability by limiting driver distraction, through adjustable screen options, safe text messaging and automated announcements. MDTs consolidate the user interfaces of numerous devices into a single display. When in motion, the display can be locked to display a clock, map or blank screen, further reducing the opportunity for distraction and the screens are designed to be easily readable. Non-emergency radio calls are eliminated when drivers use their MDTs text messaging function to communicate with dispatch. As an added safety measure, drivers can send and view messages only while the vehicle is stationary. MDTs can integrate with CAD/AVL soft ware, signs and audio systems, to share real-time route information with passengers having to take any action. When considering MDTs for your fl eet, be sure to ask for a demonstration of the devices’ distraction-reducing features to gain a better understanding of how they can make your operation safer. If your agency already has MDTs, I urge you to ensure all the features I’ve mentioned are enabled and used by your drivers. (SHULHQFHWKHIXOOOLQHRI$5%2&ORZÀRRUEXVHV two-way communication, data collection and reporting. via automated announcements — without the driver 6SLULWRI)UHHGRP 6SLULWRI0RELOLW\ 6SLULWRI/LEHUW\ APRIL/MAY 2017 | MassTransitmag.com | Mass Transit | 43 Calgary, Alberta DISTRACTED DRIVING IS RECOGnized as a leading cause of preventable traffic collisions. The city of Ottawa, Ontario, experienced the dangers of transit driver distraction firsthand on September 18, 2013, when a double-decker OC Transpo bus collided with a VIA rail train. Six people were killed and several were seriously injured. An investigation determined that driver distraction was a significant factor in the crash; the driver had been viewing a video monitor that was located on a panel above the windshield. Th is crash showed how in-vehicle technology can be a dangerous distraction. However, when guidelines are followed, technology can be used safely and can even serve to improve safety. A key component of transit technology is the mobile data terminal (MDT), a powerful piece of in-vehicle hardware that (48$/$&&(66 IRU )RUPRUHLQIRUPDWLRQSOHDVHFRQWDFWXVDW 3KRQH)D *UHHQILHOG3NZ\0LGGOHEXU\,1 ZZZ$5%2&VYFRP 6SLULWRI,QGHSHQGHQFH 6 3DWHQW3DWHQWDQG3DWHQW3HQGLQJ For more information, visit www.MassTransitmag.com/10066174
MassTransit_AprilMay_2017
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