Initial Email:
Broomfield is exploring the option of installing cameras on their buses, and they’re looking for recommendations on reliable brands or companies. Additionally, please share if you’re aware of any potential funding sources for this type of project.
Responses (x3):
Ericka Donaldson, All Points Transit
We were able to secure Lytx camera services for our vehicles. They are very dependable and have really amazing features through their software and cameras. We were able to secure them through a grant that was related to driver training due to the coaching and training the program offers when the driver makes mistakes on the road. Also a reminder that there has to be a form signed by drivers that they understand that it will always be recorded but footage will only be pulled if there is a complaint or a safety issue. This actually has lowered our insurance premiums as they work with insurance companies to reduce rates. They also integrate with Fleetio for fleet tracking. The hardest part is getting the drivers to understand that the cameras will save them more than they hurt them. We have been able to determine no liability on many items since we have gotten them. They have offered protection from lawsuits against the company, injuries and against the driver, not to mention the wonderful assets they make in the event of an accident or hit and run. Also the bus will need some type of signage on it that indicates there are cameras recording. Hopefully this helps some!
Eric Esch, Envida
One benefit, if you have not looked into this, is the ability to have Telematics with some of the camera systems like GoMotive.
We decided to use GoMotive, and we were decently happy with their service. We ran into the Verizon network data issues from low quality reception from the network. This ultimately drove us to look for a different solution. We recently moved forward with Vestage, as it integrates with our Ecocline dispatch software allowing dispatchers to pull live camera feeds from the buses.
Have you checked with Tripspark to see if they have an integrated camera system as well?
If you are having connections issues, you may also ask about “multi-band sim cards”. Those use several different carriers to remove the connectivity issues. (you can get multi band sim cards for the tablets as well fyi)
Kari Distefano, San Miguel Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART)
I’m not an expert, but I can share my experience with cameras. We got a couple of sets of cameras with new buses. The best are the REIs. They are easy to use and the quality of the video is good. The Angel Trax aren’t as clear and the Luminators are a pain. In theory, you are supposed to be able to view the Luminators from your office, but if there is no internet available, that doesn’t work and if you don’t have internet access, you have to sit on the bus when it is running to view the video. With the REI system, you just pull the video box out of the bus and hook it up to the computer. If you have an extra box, you can just trade the box you need to view for the extra. Good luck.
