James River Transportation recently completed the installation of Artificial Intelligence based technology to improve safety for passengers, drivers and the public.
A new product from Samsara was chosen because of its innovative design and unmatched ability to keep everyone safe. James River has had video event recorders for over 10 years, but the Samsara product uses Artificial Intelligence to monitor the video feed. Much like driverless vehicle systems, the cameras constantly monitor the vehicle performance, driver actions, pedestrians and highway conditions. If a potentially unsafe action is detected, the driver and our safety supervisor are immediately alerted. The event is on captured on video and available for review and training at a later date.
Here is a video of the system
The system also monitors the performance of drivers and vehicles through an interconnected system of telematics that tracks speed, G-forces, GPS location, engine controls and environmental conditions. The data is compiled to automatically create a report card for drivers and vehicles. The data allows the company to identify even minor trends and make improvements quickly.
Samsara supports James River Transportation’s Hours of Service (driver logs) compliance as well as its vehicle inspection system. Smart phones are utilized to record the vehicle inspection check list procedure, including photos when needed. The report is immediately transmitted to the maintenance department for improved safety and efficiency.
The company began utilizing smart phones in 2017 as its primary communications portal for training, operational procedures, operating manuals, company newsletters and a library safety and training materials.
James River Transportation has always been a leader in utilizing innovative technology to improve safety. JRT was one of the first to utilize GPS tracking, speed alerts, video event recording and an interactive driving simulator.
James River Transportation is a full-service transportation provider and event planning organization with facilities located in Richmond and Norfolk. The company also has on-site operations at Richmond International Airport and Norfolk International Airport. Services include motorcoach and minicoach transportation, airport transfers, transportation management, contract services, and convention shuttles.
The company has been in business for over 90 years and is a Certified Member of the International Motorcoach Group (IMG). The IMG is an invitation only partnership of the top transportation companies in North America. IMG members are committed to high levels of safety, service and reliability. James River Transportation was named IMG Operator of the Year in 2019.