TLC Puts Data Recorders and Cameras in 10 Cabs for Safety Tech Pilot

The Taxi and Limousine Commission officially launched a pilot program Tuesday that outfits TLC-licensed vehicles with electronic equipment intended to promote safe driving.

For the Vehicle Safety Technology Pilot Program, TLC installed data recorders, driver alert systems, and cameras in 10 TLC-licensed vehicles, including yellow taxis, green cabs, and livery cabs.

Based on the TLC press release, it seems the data recorders will track the same information as a conventional vehicle “black box” -- speed, acceleration, braking, and sharp turns. The alert systems “notify the driver” of “unsafe driving factors,” the press release says.

The Daily News reported last month that an avoidance system used for the program activates audible and visible warnings and vibrates the steering wheel when it detects a potential collision.

TLC Commissioner Meera Joshi was joined by City Council Member James Vacca in announcing the program.

“The VST Pilot Program will give us a bird’s eye view of what is actually happening on the road and the mere presence of a black box will keep drivers mindful of the responsibility they have behind the wheel,” Joshi said in the press release. “The data collected by this piloted technology will help the TLC and our industries reinforce good driving practices that will ultimately keep drivers, passengers, pedestrians and cyclists as safe as possible.”

Vacca said the pilot, which as of now employs devices from two companies, will help determine which equipment will be best suited for future use.

We asked TLC if the agency will have ready access to "black box" data during the pilot, and how TLC plans to use the data in the event of a crash. We'll update here if we hear back.