Washington Metro testing operator seat belts

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

The transit authority has installed specialized bus operator seats on five Metrobuses in Alexandria, Va., and five 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.