Metro News Release

For immediate release: August 18, 2008

Metro testing new seat belts for Metrobus operators

Metro is testing a new type of operator seat and seat belt that could help Metrobus drivers in case of an accident.

Metro has installed specialized bus operator seats on five Metrobuses assigned to the Four Mile Run bus division in Alexandria, VA, and five to the Montgomery bus division in Montgomery County, MD. These seats, manufactured by Recaro, and USS Seats utilize an integral three-point seat belt system similar to one used in an automobile. The seat offers the operator improved comfort and enhanced safety in case of an accident.

The seats have an orange reflective color seat belt, which is easily identifiable to other drivers and Metrobus passengers.

The new seats and seat belts will be installed on Metro’s 203 newest electric hybrid buses, with the first 50 arriving later this fall.

“This is a good way to enhance the safety of our bus system,” said Milo Victoria, Metro’s Assistant General Manager for Metrobus. “We are always seeking new methods for improving safety, and this new technology will strengthen the day-to-day operations of Metrobus.”


The installation of these new seats and belts is another example of Metro’s commitment to employee and passenger safety. Over the last 18 months, Metro has implemented several actions to improve bus and pedestrian safety. Metro has:

• Purchased a bus simulator for initial and refresher driver training;
• Established a mentor program for new bus operators;
• Expanded operator service observations to evening hours with instructors randomly riding at night to observe and correct driver performance;
• Installed retro-reflective tabs on bus shelters and developed night light bus stop pilots;
• Installed a collision avoidance system on 50 buses as a pilot program;
• Purchased 20 radar guns to monitor speed; and
• Installed flashing amber lights atop 100 Metrobuses in the District of Columbia to help pedestrians spot the buses from a distance at night.

News release issued at 2:15 pm, August 18, 2008.