New York, NY (January 22, 2024] – Together for Safer Roads (TSR), a leading non-governmental organization committed to advancing road safety through cross-sector collaboration and technological innovation, proudly welcomes Lytx, Inc. as its newest member. Lytx, a global leader in video safety and video telematics, joins TSR in its mission to enhance global fleet safety and reduce traffic-related incidents on a worldwide scale.

Lytx’s innovative solutions harness the power of video technology to empower drivers and fleets, promoting safety, efficiency, and productivity. Through its platform, Lytx offers customizable services spanning driver safety, risk detection, fleet tracking, compliance, preventative maintenance, asset tracking, and fuel management. With a presence in over 85 countries, Lytx’s commitment to cutting-edge technology aligns seamlessly with TSR’s vision for safer roads.

“Lytx is a pioneer in fleet management technologies, and their dedication to enhancing safety makes them an essential new member of Together for Safer Roads,” said Peter Goldwasser, TSR’s Executive Director.

“Lytx’s video telematics and data-based solutions will help us further our ability to support and work with public and private sector fleets to reach Vision Zero goals – the eradication of traffic fatalities and severe injuries.”

Lytx, headquartered in San Diego, California, brings a wealth of expertise to TSR. Its flagship DriveCam® Event Recorder has led the industry in accuracy and reliability for over 25 years and is deployed by thousands of fleets to help protect millions of drivers. The company’s Surfsight® solution, available internationally, allows strategic partners and resellers to easily integrate video into their telematics offerings.

Lytx’s technology, powered by robust machine vision and artificial intelligence, proactively detects and helps mitigate risks, providing detailed analytics and real-time visibility into overall fleet performance.

“Lytx is honored to join Together for Safer Roads in the pursuit of advancing global road safety,” said Jeff Martin, VP of Global Sales Strategy at Lytx. “Our mission supports TSR’s commitment to collaboration and innovation for fleet safety, and we look forward to contributing our expertise to drive positive change in the industry.”

As TSR continues to expand its diverse member coalition, Lytx’s membership enhances the organization’s ability to leverage technology and innovation in the pursuit of safer roads. The collaboration will further strengthen TSR’s position as a global leader in fostering partnerships and implementing innovative programs aimed at preventing traffic crashes, injuries, and fatalities.

“We are very fortunate to have Lytx as our newest member. The company’s long standing commitment to innovation and road safety will help make our coalition of companies, organizations and cities that much stronger and effective,” said Andres Penate, Together for Safer Roads Board Chair and Global VP Corporate Affairs at Anheuser-Busch InBev.

About Together for Safer Roads (TSR):

Together for Safer Roads (TSR) is a leading non-governmental organization focused on building cross-sector partnerships to improve fleet trucking safety. Leveraging the technology, data, and expertise of its members, TSR creates innovative programs aimed at preventing traffic crashes, injuries, and fatalities globally. TSR collaborates with governments, businesses, and community stakeholders on local projects, fleet safety management, and technology initiatives, with the ultimate goal of achieving Vision Zero — the complete eradication of traffic fatalities and severe injuries. Learn more at TSR’s website.

About Lytx:

Lytx is a global leader in video safety and video telematics. Our solutions harness the power of video to empower drivers and fleets to be safer and more efficient, productive, and profitable so they can thrive in today’s competitive environment. Through the Lytx Vision™ Platform, direct and reseller clients access our customizable services and programs spanning video safety, fleet tracking, DVIR, Asset Tracking, and ELD compliance. Using the world’s largest driving database of its kind, along with proprietary machine vision and artificial intelligence technology, we help protect and connect thousands of fleets and 2.1 million drivers in more than 85 countries. For more information about Lytx, visit www.lytx.com.

New York, New York (January 19, 2024) – Together for Safer Roads (TSR) is pleased to announce an expansion of its Truck of the Future (TOF) Program to now include a “School Bus of the Future” extension. This new initiative is one part of the ambitious, new multi-pronged School Bus Safety Transition Plan released today by the NYC Department of Citywide Administrative Services and the NYC Department of Education Office of Pupil Transportation. The “School Bus of the Future” pilot will focus on mitigating blind zones via technology such as surround cameras, in-cab driver alerting systems like pedestrian collision warning (PCW) and back up sensors – with the long-term goal of effecting school bus design that increases direct vision, especially as bus electrification offers additional opportunities for direct vision in new buses. This new pilot program will also provide near miss collision reporting and analysis.

TSR’s original Truck of the Future Program (TOF) works to address the important safety issue of blind zones in commercial trucks. An innovative, technology-focused initiative, the Truck of the Future pilot enables participating cities and companies to equip their fleets with state-of-the-art hardware and software solutions. In addition, pilot participants receive comprehensive training and support, creating a robust program aimed at best integrating the technology into current systems and procedures. NYC DCAS is one of the first city fleet participants in the pilot program.

The Problem: Driver skill alone cannot overcome what he or she cannot see. School buses, constantly stopping and driving in areas where children embark or disembark, face a unique set of challenges due to limited visibility. This poses difficulties for drivers in making the safest choices, especially in densely populated and residential areas.

The Solution: Building on the success of the Truck of the Future Program, TSR and NYC DCAS, in conjunction with video telematics partners, will implement a state-of-the-art Vulnerable Road User (VRU) Detection System on school buses. This technology utilizes advanced camera systems to provide a comprehensive 360-degree view around the vehicle, offering real-time feedback on imminent risks and near-misses. The installation of this system is poised to significantly enhance both driver safety and the safety of schoolchildren, other pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists.

“As a development stemming from the Truck of the Future program, we are thrilled to announce the School Bus of the Future initiative,” said Peter Goldwasser, Executive Director of Together for Safer Roads. “With a commitment to advancing road safety, TSR recognizes the unique challenges faced by school bus drivers in ensuring the well-being of the precious cargo they transport. This expansion underscores the power of cross-sector collaboration and innovation to make our roads and vehicle fleets safer.”

About Together For Safer Roads:
Together for Safer Roads (TSR) — a leading international NGO focused on building cross-sector partnerships to enhance fleet trucking safety — leverages the technology, data, and expertise of the private sector to create innovative programs aimed at preventing traffic crashes, injuries, and fatalities around the world. TSR members include some of the largest and most influential fleets worldwide, as well as best-in-class road safety technology businesses  — companies driven to save lives.

Learn more at www.togetherforsaferroads.org.

Media contact:
Judy Klym
judy@agletstrategies.com
203-921-9039

New York, NY (November 9, 2023) — Together for Safer Roads (TSR), a leading non-governmental organization dedicated to fostering cross-sector partnerships and using technological innovation to enhance global fleet trucking safety, proudly announces MAGTEC as its newest member. MAGTEC, a trailblazer in fleet safety technology, joins TSR in its collaborative mission to enhance road safety and prevent traffic-related incidents on a global scale.

“MAGTEC’s forward-thinking work, centered on their pioneering SafeSpeed technology, aligns squarely with our goal to bring road safety technology leaders and fleet truck operators together to make our roads safer,” said Peter Goldwasser, TSR’s Executive Director. “Innovation and collaboration are at the center of Together for Safer Roads, and we are thrilled to welcome MAGTEC as a new member.”
Robert Morisset, Founder, President and CEO of MAGTEC, commented, “MAGTEC is committed to leveraging our technological expertise to advance Vision Zero – eliminating traffic fatalities and severe injuries among all road users – and contribute to a safer future. We look forward to working with TSR to reduce and ultimately eliminate traffic fatalities.”

Safespeed, MAGTEC’s intelligent speed management system, automatically adjusts vehicle speeds according to posted speed limits, significantly reducing the risks associated with speed-related crashes. By collaborating with TSR, MAGTEC brings the power and ideas behind its technology to address the pressing issue of road safety alongside TSR’s diverse member coalition, including fleet operators, tech innovators, and local governments.

“As Board Chair of Together for Safer Roads, I’m thrilled to welcome road safety technology leader MAGTEC to our coalition of companies, organizations, and cities” said Andres Peñate, Together for Safer Roads Board Chair and Global VP Corporate Affairs at Anheuser-Busch InBev. “Their membership is an invaluable addition to TSR’s work.”

By uniting stakeholders, TSR’s member coalition creates a unique environment for collaboration and knowledge sharing to achieve Vision Zero. The inclusion of MAGTEC further enhances TSR’s ability to leverage technology and innovation in the pursuit of safer roads.

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About Together For Safer Roads:

Together for Safer Roads (TSR) is a leading non-governmental organization focused on building cross-sector partnerships to improve fleet trucking safety. Leveraging the technology, data, and expertise of its members, TSR creates innovative programs aimed at preventing traffic crashes, injuries, and fatalities globally. TSR’s membership includes some of the largest and most influential fleets worldwide, as well as prominent road safety technology companies. TSR collaborates with governments, businesses, and community stakeholders on local projects, fleet safety management, and technology initiatives, with the ultimate goal of achieving Vision Zero — the complete eradication of traffic fatalities and severe injuries. Learn more at TSR’s website.

About MAGTEC:

MAGTEC specializes in developing and manufacturing intelligent vehicle control systems that help prevent speeding, enhance safety, and improve security for light, medium and heavy-duty vehicles. Its flagship product, SafeSpeed® provides lifesaving Intelligent Speed Assist (ISA) technology to control vehicle speed and is the only retrofittable technology for all vehicle types. MAGTEC’S headquarters are in Calgary, Alberta, Canada and operates two wholly owned subsidiaries, MAGTEC Products (USA), Inc. and MAGTEC Asia, Inc. www.magtec.com

Media Contact:
Judy Klym
judy@agletstrategies.com
203-921-9039

MEDIA ADVISORY

2023 Vision Zero Fleet Safety Forum: Shaping the Future of Road Safety

November 2, 2023 – Queens Theatre – 8am – 3pm

New York, NY (November 1, 2023) – Together for Safer Roads (TSR) is proud to present the 2023 Vision Zero Fleet Safety Forum, an annual gathering dedicated to advancing road safety and fostering cross-sector collaborations. This annual conference serves as a platform for sharing innovative approaches, technology-driven solutions, and expert insights, all contributing to the shared goal of Vision Zero – the elimination of traffic fatalities and severe injuries.

The Vision Zero Fleet Safety Forum is presented alongside the NYC Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS), with participation from a diverse cross-section of organizations including: The FIA Foundation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), VisionTrack, United Parcel Service (UPS), Republic Services, AB InBev, Warner Bros. Discovery, United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), Samsara, Dennis Eagle, Windels Marx, The US Department of Transportation (DOT) Volpe Center, Magtec, International Association of Transportation Regulators (IATR), Fernhay, Driver Alcohol Detection System for Safety (DADSS), AB InBev Foundation, the Québec Delegate General’s Office in New York, Automotive Coalition for Traffic Safety (ACTS), Families for Safe Streets, National Waste & Recycling Association (NWRA), Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), Interstate Waste Services (IWS), Regional Plan Association (RPA), Cities Reimagined, America Walks, Trucking Association of NY (TANY), and Curb.

Event Details:

Vision Zero Fleet Safety Forum
Date: November 2, 2023
Time: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM EDT
Location: Queens Theatre, 14 United Nations Avenue South, Queens, NY 11368
Description: This year’s Vision Zero Fleet Safety Forum, organized by TSR and DCAS, will convene key stakeholders from the public and private sectors, government officials, leaders in safety technology, policy experts, and dedicated road safety advocates. The event agenda includes engaging keynote presentations, informative panel discussions, interactive breakout sessions, and networking opportunities.

Conference Agenda Highlights:

Exhibit Hall and Registration (8am-9am): Engage with representatives from leading safety companies and organizations, including VisionTrack, MAGTEC, Sturdy, Geotab, Hang Up and Drive, New York State Troopers, DADSS, industry representatives from Quebec and others. Visit the mobile New York State DMV unit for REAL ID photos and license renewals.

Welcoming Remarks (9am – 9:30am): Introductory remarks in the main auditorium from New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) Commissioner Dawn Pinnock, Together for Safer Roads Executive Director Peter Goldwasser, and New York State DMV Commissioner, Mark J. F. Schroeder.

Update on NYC’s Safe Fleet Transition and Special Announcements (9:30am to 9:50am): Keith Kerman, DCAS Deputy Commissioner and NYC Chief Fleet Officer, provides an update on the city’s efforts to enhance safety in the largest municipal fleet in the country and will also be making special announcements regarding intelligent speed assistance and school bus safety.

Keynote Speaker and Presentation of Global Vision Zero Leadership Award (9:50am to 10:15am): Natalie Draisin, Director of the North American Office & UN Representative for FIA Foundation, followed by the presentation of the Global Vision Zero Leadership Award.

A Vision for Tomorrow (10:15am-11am): Panel discussion moderated by Dr. Alex Epstein, Safety and Sustainability Senior Engineer, US DOT Volpe Center, featuring vehicle manufacturers, technology providers, large trucking fleets, health professionals, and advocates.

Fireside Chat Roundtable: “The past, present, and future of safe and sustainable for hire vehicle fleets” (11:15am to 11:45am): Matthew Daus, the longest serving Commissioner at the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission, currently partner and chair of transportation at the law-firm Windels, Marx, Lane, & Mittendorf LLP and President of the International Association of Transportation Regulators, in discussion with David Do, current NYC TLC Commissioner and 2022 Regulator of the Year award winner.
“Braking” the Culture of Speed Panel (11:45am-12:30pm): Panel discussion featuring federal leaders, road safety organizations, victim advocates, and fleet operators. The session will be moderated by NHTSA’s Richard Simon

Afternoon Workshops (1:45pm-3pm):

• The Power of Procurement: Deep dive into the world of procurement and how we can revise and update policies so that direct vision trucks can be more easily identified, approved and purchased.
• Storytelling for Change: Insights from leading communication, education, and social responsibility experts on leveraging storytelling for policy change.
• Rightsizing and Electrifying Fleets: Workshop led by Director of Seattle’s Department of Transportation Greg Spotts, exploring fleet size optimization and safety.
• Closing Remarks (3pm-3:30pm): Wrapping up the 2023 Vision Zero Fleet Safety Forum with insights and thoughts from AB InBev Foundation Executive Director Sam Stephens

Those wishing to view the full agenda and/or attend can register Here: Vision Zero Fleet Safety Forum Registration

To arrange an interview, please contact Judy Klym – judy@agletstrategies.com

About the Vision Zero Fleet Safety Forum:
The Vision Zero Fleet Safety Forum is a premier annual event dedicated to advancing road safety through cross-sector collaboration, technology innovation, and knowledge sharing.

About the Global Vision Zero Awards:
The Global Vision Zero Leadership Award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated a
leadership role in the global vision zero movement by making commitments to help eliminate serious
traffic related injuries and deaths. The Lenin Fierro Vision Zero Fleet Advocacy Award is presented to an individual who has the leadership, positivity, commitment, approachability and personal dedication to transforming organizations towards the goals of Vision Zero. This year, the Global Vision Zero Leadership Award will be presented to Natalie Draisin, Director of the North American Office & UN Representative for FIA Foundation, at the Vision Zero Fleet Safety Forum, while the Lenin Fierro Vision Zero Fleet Advocacy Award will be presented to Greg Spotts, Director of Seattle’s Department of Transportation, on 11/1 at TSR’s annual Member Reception.

About Together For Safer Roads:
Together for Safer Roads (TSR), is a leading NGO focused on building cross-sector partnerships to improve fleet trucking safety, leveraging the technology, data, and expertise of its members to create innovative programs aimed at preventing traffic crashes, injuries, and fatalities across the globe. TSR’s membership includes some of the largest and most influential fleets worldwide, as well as prominent road safety technology companies. TSR collaborates with governments, businesses, and community
stakeholders on local projects, fleet safety management, and technology initiatives, with the ultimate goal of achieving Vision Zero — the complete eradication of traffic fatalities and severe injuries. Learn more at TSR’s website.

Media Contact:
Judy Klym
judy@agletstrategies.com
203-921-9039

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

-Natalie Draisin, FIA Foundation, and Greg Spotts, Seattle DOT, Recognized forSignificant Contributions to Road Safety-

New York, NY (October 19, 2023) – Together for Safer Roads (TSR), a leading non-governmental organization dedicated to fostering cross-sector partnerships and using technological innovation to enhance global fleet trucking safety, and the NYC Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS), announced the distinguished recipients of the 2023 Annual Global Vision Zero Awards. These awards recognize outstanding individuals and organizations working to make our roads safer for all.

Natalie Draisin, Director, North America Office & United Nations Representative at the FIA Foundation, has been selected as the recipient of the Global Vision Zero Leadership Award. Each year, the award is presented to an individual who has made deep seated, broad-based, inspiring contributions to the global vision zero movement. Ms. Draisin’s long career in the transportation field covers substantial work in both the public and private sectors and currently, she leads the Foundation’s global efforts to advance evidence-based solutions through safe, sustainable mobility.

Greg Spotts, Director of the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT), will be receiving the Lenin Fierro Vision Zero Fleet Advocacy Award for his outstanding commitment as a champion of fleet safety. Named in honor of the late Lenin Fierro, a former NYC DCAS employee and long-time safety advocate, the award is presented annually to an individual who through their leadership, positivity, and personal dedication transforms organizations and helps them drive towards Vision Zero. Director Spotts has a remarkable and long record of creative and effective leadership in road safety, including the recent formation of Seattle’s first Chief Transportation Safety Officer.

“We are delighted to honor Natalie Draisin and Greg Spotts, whose diverse portfolio of work has led to important progress in road and fleet safety, and which embodies our organization’s commitment to creating safer roads for all,” said Peter Goldwasser, Executive Director of Together for Safer Roads. “Their efforts demonstrate the notable leadership we need to achieve our collective goal of reaching Vision Zero.”

Keith Kerman, Deputy Commissioner and Chief Fleet Officer at NYC DCAS added that “Greg Spotts and Natalie Draisin are exemplary leaders – their dedication and vision have played a pivotal role in improving road and fleet safety in Seattle as well as across the US and around the world.”

“I am deeply honored to receive the Global Vision Zero Leadership Award,” said Natalie Draisin. “Road safety is a shared responsibility, and I am proud to be advancing evidence-based solutions for safe, sustainable, equitable mobility.”

Greg Spotts added, “Receiving the Lenin Fierro Vision Zero Fleet Advocacy Award is a testament to the dedication of our team and our commitment to making streets safer. Together, we can achieve Vision Zero and save lives.”

This year, the Lenin Fierro Vision Zero Fleet Advocacy Award will be presented at the annual Together for Safer Roads Member Reception to be held on November 1st from 6-8 pm, while the Global Vision Zero Leadership Award will be presented at the Vision Zero Fleet Safety Forum on November 2nd.

The Vision Zero Fleet Safety Forum, presented by TSR and NYC DCAS, will bring together key stakeholders from the public and private sectors, government officials, innovative safety technology companies, policy experts, and road safety advocates. The event will feature keynote speeches, panel discussions, breakout sessions, and opportunities for networking.

The Forum will be held on Thursday, November 2, 2023 from 8:00 am – 3:00 pm EDT at the Queens Theatre, 14 United Nations Avenue South, Queens, NY 11368.

To find out more about speakers, workshops/panels and to reserve your spot at the Vision Zero Fleet Safety Forum, please visit the registration page.

About the Global Vision Zero Awards:

The Global Vision Zero Leadership Award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated a leadership role in the global vision zero movement by making commitments to help eliminate serious traffic related injuries and deaths. The Lenin Fierro Vision Zero Fleet Advocacy Award is presented to an individual who has the leadership, positivity, commitment, approachability and personal dedication to transforming organizations towards the goals of Vision Zero.

About Together For Safer Roads:

Together for Safer Roads (TSR), is a leading NGO focused on building cross-sector partnerships to improve fleet trucking safety, leveraging the technology, data, and expertise of its members to create innovative programs aimed at preventing traffic crashes, injuries, and fatalities across the globe. TSR’s membership includes some of the largest and most influential fleets worldwide, as well as prominent road safety technology companies. TSR collaborates with governments, businesses, and community stakeholders on local projects, fleet safety management, and technology initiatives, with the ultimate goal of achieving Vision Zero — the complete eradication of traffic fatalities and severe injuries. Learn more at TSR’s website.

About NYC Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS):

The Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) provides effective shared services to support the operations of New York City government. New York City operates over 30,000 owned and leased vehicles, the largest municipal fleet in the United States. DCAS is a part of the citywide Vision Zero initiative and serves on the Mayor’s Vision Zero Task Force, Vision Zero Marketing Group, and Fleet Working Group. As part of making streets safer, DCAS has installed over 60,000 safety systems on city vehicles including the largest truck sideguard program in North America and one of the largest singular telematics programs. More information on DCAS and its role in fleet management can be found at nyc.gov/dcas.

Media Contact:
Judy Klym
judy@agletstrategies.com
203-921-9039

New York, NY (September 25, 2023) — This week, Together for Safer Roads (TSR), a leading non-governmental organization dedicated to fostering cross-sector partnerships and using technological innovation to enhance global fleet trucking safety, announced an important next step and the selection of key partners in its seat belt safety standardization project–the first phase of its new Fleet Trucking Global Safety Standards Initiative.

This initiative, which officially launched during the UN Global Road Safety Week in May 2023, has the goal of establishing fleet trucking safety instrument standards for a broad cross-section of critical safety instruments and technologies; standards that will enable fleet operators to promote change at scale and support fleets of all sizes in their purchasing, utilization and/ or evaluation of the “right” foundational safety tools and technologies, directly contributing to safer roads for all.

Tapping into its deep network of members, partners and other relevant experts across the public and private sectors, TSR identified seat belts as the first safety instrument to be evaluated. Conducting extensive stakeholder interviews and research on the issue, a specific insight and overall theme emerged: the critical need for comprehensive “Gold Star” Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) related to increasing driver seat belt utilization rates; SOPs that offers public and private sector fleets step-by-step instructions across a number of specific areas including training, purchasing, hardware and software and monitoring. In short: rigorous policies that encompass and address both human behavior and specific seat belt hardware and technology that taken together have the potential to increase seat belt utilization rates.

“Today, I am pleased to report that, through intensive research and enthusiastic participation by fleet operators, we have made significant progress on our first set of safety instrument recommendations, which will focus on seat belt utilization,” said Peter Goldwasser, Executive Director of Together for Safer Roads. “This represents a significant milestone within the Fleet Trucking Global Safety Standards Initiative, and a major step toward testing partnerships with some of the largest fleet operators in the US.”

This inaugural set of standards is being developed and tested in collaboration with prominent fleet partners, including AB InBev, Republic Services, The City of New York Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS), Pepsico and Interstate Waste Services.

“We are committed to supporting this important work to develop safety instrument recommendations for standards alongside TSR, as we believe in the collective power of organizations, both large and small, to contribute to the long-term improvement of global fleet trucking safety,” said AB InBev.

“Being part of this initiative and supporting TSR, as well as fleets of all sizes, resonates with our commitment to enhancing road safety on a broader scale,” said Jim Olson, Vice President, Safety, at Republic Services. “We are excited about the potential impact of this endeavor in the long run. Starting with seat belts is a logical and powerful approach. These devices, when utilized, save lives.”

“Our fleet in New York City has seen the deadly consequences when operators don’t buckle up. Our partnership with TSR in this significant initiative underscores our dedication to upholding the highest safety standards within our fleet operations,” said NYC DCAS Deputy Commissioner and Chief Fleet Officer Keith Kerman. “We look forward to the potential positive outcomes this collaboration can bring for New York City’s fleet trucks and those in cities across the US and the world.”

“Interstate Waste Services is thrilled to join hands with TSR in this mission to bolster fleet trucking safety standards,” said Sal Mastriani, Vice President of Risk Management at Interstate Waste Services. “We are proud to be part of this global endeavor that holds the promise of a safer future for all road users.”

The “Gold Star” Standard Operating Procedures will be comprised of categories that reflect the elements of safety standards that emerged during user interviews with fleet managers. The next step in this work will be working with our implementation partners (including drivers) to build out the content within each category, creating specific SOPs that will then be tested by the actual end user: drivers.

The new Fleet Trucking Global Safety Standards Initiative is closely aligned with the UN’s Vision Zero goals, and TSR extends an invitation to fleet truck operators worldwide, including businesses, governments, and organizations, to join in this vital mission.

####

About Together For Safer Roads

Together for Safer Roads (TSR) is the leading NGO focused on building cross-sector partnerships to enhance fleet trucking safety, leverages the technology, data, and expertise of the private sector to create innovative programs aimed at preventing traffic crashes, injuries, and fatalities across the globe. TSR’s membership includes some of the largest and most influential fleets worldwide, as well as prominent road safety technology companies. TSR collaborates with governments, businesses, and community stakeholders on local projects, fleet safety management, and technology initiatives, with the ultimate goal of achieving Vision Zero — the complete eradication of traffic fatalities and severe injuries. Learn more at www.togetherforsaferroads.com.

New York, NY (September 19, 2023) — This week, Together for Safer Roads (TSR), a leading non-governmental organization dedicated to fostering cross-sector partnerships and using technological innovation to enhance global fleet trucking safety, announced an important next step and the selection of key partners in its seat belt safety standardization project–the first phase of its new Fleet Trucking Global Safety Standards Initiative.

This initiative, which officially launched during the UN Global Road Safety Week in May 2023, has the goal of establishing fleet trucking safety instrument standards for a broad cross-section of critical safety instruments and technologies; standards that will enable fleet operators to promote change at scale and support fleets of all sizes in their purchasing, utilization and/ or evaluation of the “right” foundational safety tools and technologies, directly contributing to safer roads for all.

Tapping into its deep network of members, partners and other relevant experts across the public and private sectors, TSR identified seat belts as the first safety instrument to be evaluated. Conducting extensive stakeholder interviews and research on the issue, a specific insight and overall theme emerged: the critical need for comprehensive “Gold Star” Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) related to increasing driver seat belt utilization rates; SOPs that offers public and private sector fleets step-by-step instructions across a number of specific areas including training, purchasing, hardware and software and monitoring. In short: rigorous policies that encompass and address both human behavior and specific seat belt hardware and technology that taken together have the potential to increase seat belt utilization rates.

“Today, I am pleased to report that, through intensive research and enthusiastic participation by fleet operators, we have made significant progress on our first set of safety instrument recommendations, which will focus on seat belt utilization,” said Peter Goldwasser, Executive Director of Together for Safer Roads. “This represents a significant milestone within the Fleet Trucking Global Safety Standards Initiative, and a major step toward testing partnerships with some of the largest fleet operators in the US.”

This inaugural set of standards is being developed and tested in collaboration with prominent fleet partners, including AB InBev, Republic Services, The City of New York Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS), Pepsico and Interstate Waste Services.

“We are committed to supporting this important work to develop safety instrument recommendations for standards alongside TSR, as we believe in the collective power of organizations, both large and small, to contribute to the long-term improvement of global fleet trucking safety,” said AB InBev.

“Being part of this initiative and supporting TSR, as well as fleets of all sizes, resonates with our commitment to enhancing road safety on a broader scale,” said Jim Olson, Vice President, Safety, at Republic Services. “We are excited about the potential impact of this endeavor in the long run. Starting with seat belts is a logical and powerful approach. These devices, when utilized, save lives.”

“Our fleet in New York City has seen the deadly consequences when operators don’t buckle up. Our partnership with TSR in this significant initiative underscores our dedication to upholding the highest safety standards within our fleet operations,” said NYC DCAS Deputy Commissioner and Chief Fleet Officer Keith Kerman. “We look forward to the potential positive outcomes this collaboration can bring for New York City’s fleet trucks and those in cities across the US and the world.”
“Interstate Waste Services is thrilled to join hands with TSR in this mission to bolster fleet trucking safety standards,” said Sal Mastriani, Vice President of Risk Management at Interstate Waste Services. “We are proud to be part of this global endeavor that holds the promise of a safer future for all road users.”

The “Gold Star” Standard Operating Procedures will be comprised of categories that reflect the elements of safety standards that emerged during user interviews with fleet managers. The next step in this work will be working with our implementation partners (including drivers) to build out the content within each category, creating specific SOPs that will then be tested by the actual end user: drivers.

The new Fleet Trucking Global Safety Standards Initiative is closely aligned with the UN’s Vision Zero goals, and TSR extends an invitation to fleet truck operators worldwide, including businesses, governments, and organizations, to join in this vital mission.

####

About Together For Safer Roads

Together for Safer Roads (TSR), the leading NGO focused on building cross-sector partnerships to enhance fleet trucking safety, leverages the technology, data, and expertise of the private sector to create innovative programs aimed at preventing traffic crashes, injuries, and fatalities across the globe. TSR’s membership includes some of the largest and most influential fleets worldwide, as well as prominent road safety technology companies. TSR collaborates with governments, businesses, and community stakeholders on local projects, fleet safety management, and technology initiatives, with the ultimate goal of achieving Vision Zero — the complete eradication of traffic fatalities and severe injuries. Learn more at www.togetherforsaferroads.com.

Transforms Hillcroft Avenue in the Gulfton Neighborhood from One of the Most Dangerous Corridors in the City to a Safer, More Equitable Roadway

Houston, Texas (June 5, 2023) – Together for Safer Roads (TSR) is pleased to announce the success of its joint project with the City of Houston and Mayor Sylvester Turner’s Complete Communities program.

This groundbreaking public-private partnership transformed one of the city’s most dangerous roadways, Hillcroft Avenue, into an important Vision Zero success. This is a goal for cities around the world working towards the elimination of severe road traffic injuries and fatalities.

Each year, over 30,000 fatalities occur on U.S. roads with major cities at the center of what has become a national epidemic. Hillcroft Avenue in Houston’s Gulfton neighborhood had a crash rate twice the state average compared to similar urban roadways, often involving vehicles colliding with pedestrians and cyclists with severe or fatal results.

The broad public-private partnerships involved in the Hillcroft Avenue transformation underscored its success. TSR worked closely with local government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private sector companies including Anheuser-Busch, Connect Community, Houston Planning and Development and Public Works departments, DKS Associates, Transoft Solutions, and TEI Planning + Design, to implement a series of road safety initiatives that have had a transformative impact on the local community.

The project is based on an extensive before-study analysis of road safety challenges leading to accident and injury. Consequently, Hillcroft Avenue now features very specific improvements tailored to safety concerns, including wider sidewalks, shared-use bikeways, new traffic signals for pedestrian access, improved access to METRO stops, and a reduction of general purpose vehicular travel lanes from 8 to 6. The reallocation of roadway has led to motor vehicle speed reductions of 5 to 10 MPH, which has a significant effect on injury outcomes should a collision occur, especially if pedestrians and cyclists are involved.

“The success of Hillcroft Avenue not only resides in the collaboration of the public-private partnership, but also in the important use of technology,” said Peter Goldwasser, Executive Director of Together for Safer Roads. “An innovative, quick action before-and-after study was used to provide early indication of the impact of the Hillcroft Avenue projects and strategies.

Using video analytics to identify road user speeds, trajectories, and conflicts, the study team was able to quantify safety-related benefits of the project, especially for people walking, biking, and rolling just a few weeks after completion.”

“Gulfton residents travel by foot, bike, and bus more than any others in the Houston area. City leadership is proud to have undertaken this difficult challenge, through a unique partnership with the private sector, to bring residents increased safety and mobility,”said Mayor Sylvester Turner of the City of Houston. “Residents can now move across Hillcroft Avenue with greater ease as they go to work, the grocery store, or visit friends and family.”

“Hillcroft Avenue is proof of how positive change can occur when government and businesses work in partnership and really listen to community members. It should be considered a strong model for replication in other road-safety initiatives throughout the U.S.,” said Anne Whitlock, Founding Director of Community Connect.

“On behalf of our nearly 900 employees that live and work in Houston, Anheuser-Busch is proud to be a founding sponsor of the Hillcroft Avenue initiative.” said Cesar Vargas, US Chief External Affairs Officer for Anheuser-Busch. “We thank Together for Safer Roads, our private sector partners and the City of Houston for their leadership in creating a safer community.”

Recognizing the success and efficacy of this important work, The City of Houston has recently been awarded $552,160 in federal USDOT funding through the Reconnecting Communities Pilot (RCP) grant program for the Reconnecting Communities: Gulfton and Beyond Study. An overview and link to the full Hillcroft Avenue before-and-after study can be found here.

About Together for Safer Roads
As the leading NGO focused on building cross-sector partnerships to improve fleet trucking
safety, Together for Safer Roads (TSR) leverages private-sector technology, data, and expertise to create innovative programs aimed at preventing traffic crashes, injuries, and fatalities around the globe. TSR’s members represent some of the largest and most important fleets in the world, as well as leading road safety technology companies. TSR works with governments, businesses, and community stakeholders on local projects, fleet safety management, and technology initiatives with the goal to eventually reach Vision Zero – the total elimination of traffic fatalities and severe injuries. www.togetherforsaferroads.com

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Mexico City (May 22, 2023) – In conjunction with UN Global Road Safety Week, Together for Safer Roads (TSR), the leading international NGO focused on building cross-sector partnerships to improve fleet trucking safety, announces the expansion of its innovative Truck of the Future (TOTF) pilot program to Mexico City, in partnership with Grupo Modelo and VisionTrack, a leading global provider of AI video telematics and connected vehicle data.

The Truck of the Future program was developed to improve road safety by providing state-of-the-art hardware and software that offers fleet vehicles greater blind-zone detection and visibility. The program’s goal is to improve driver safety as well as the safety of pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists, and be one step closer to making Vision Zero a global reality.

“Because of vehicle design, drivers of large vehicles often have limited visibility behind the wheel and driver skill cannot overcome what the driver cannot see,” explains Peter Goldwasser, executive director of Together for Safer Roads. “We are excited to bring the Truck of the Future program to Mexico City and support the road safety efforts of our dedicated Grupo Modelo partners.”

Grupo Modelo joins New York City’s Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) in the program, adding a private sector fleet to the pilot. The program, which is ongoing, will continue to add partners in both the public and private sectors. Each pilot participant will select ten vehicles to be retrofitted with TOTF hardware and software.

“With a commitment to road safety, we are proud of the work we have done and know there is always more to do,” said Cassiano De Stefano, president of Grupo Modelo. “The technology behind Truck of the Future is a critical next step in road safety, not only for participating fleets but for all road users, and we are thrilled to be participating in the program.”

TOTF was developed inside TSR’s Safer Roads Studio, the organization’s hub for work with forward-thinking corporations, municipalities and other road safety entrepreneurs, with hardware and software technology and support provided by VisionTrack. By utilizing AI technology, connected cameras and video telematics, drivers gain 360-degree visibility around the vehicle and are provided with real-time feedback.

“This is a hugely exciting partnership for VisionTrack and represents a significant development for the innovative Truck of the Future pilot program,” said Simon Marsh, CEO of VisionTrack. We are looking forward to working closely with TSR and Grupo Modelo to implement an industry-leading, AI-powered fleet safety system and help keep all road-users in Mexico City safe from harm.
For more information about the Truck of the Future program and Together for Safer Roads, please visit www.togetherforsaferroads.org.

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Together for Safer Roads is the leading international NGO (non-governmental organization) focused on building cross-sector partnerships to improve fleet trucking safety. TSR leverages private-sector technology, data, and expertise to create innovative programs aimed at preventing traffic crashes, injuries and fatalities around the globe. Our members represent some of the largest and important fleets in the world as well as pre-eminent road safety technology companies. We work with governments, businesses, and community stakeholders on local projects, fleet safety management and technology initiatives with the goal of achieving Vision Zero – the total elimination of traffic fatalities and severe injuries.

New York, NY (May 8 2023) — This week, Together for Safer Roads (TSR), the leading NGO focused on building cross-sector partnerships to improve fleet trucking safety around the world, announces the launch of the Fleet Trucking Global Safety Standards Initiative. The global undertaking, which will develop a set of shared fleet trucking safety standards and has the potential to save tens of thousands of lives over the next several decades, launches just before the 7th Annual UN Global Road Safety Week gets underway.

“Together for Safer Roads applauds the United Nations and World Health Organization’s efforts to promote road safety and their goal to reduce road deaths and injuries by half of their current rates by 2030 – and eventually reach Vision Zero, the elimination of all traffic fatalities and severe injuries,” said Peter Goldwasser, Executive Director of Together for Safer Roads.

“In line with these goals, TSR is launching this exciting new initiative to establish industry standards for fundamental safety instruments, which will ultimately result in a comprehensive suite of recommended standards for a broad cross-section of critical safety instruments and technologies. These will include telematics, pedestrian detection systems, automatic braking, airbags, side curtain airbags, side view mirrors, seatbelts, and others. We know from fleet trucking experts that there are no universally shared industry standards for these safety instruments. Our goal is to change that.”

“Together for Safer Roads is proud to stand with the UN Road Safety Collaboration, and all our fellow road safety advocates in this decade of action for safer roads,” said Andres Peñate, Together for Safer Roads Board Chair and Global VP Corporate Affairs at Anheuser-Busch InBev. ‘We look forward to presenting our new global safety standards concepts to this body in the future, and to ongoing work with the governments of UN member states as we work toward Vision Zero .”

“Embracing the idea, and requirements, of universal safety-based technologies for fleet trucks, it translates to more equitable deployment of safer trucks, as they hit the secondary resale markets and beyond,” said Cormac Gilligan, Together for Safer Roads Board Member and Global Head, Environment, Health & Safety (EHS) at UPS. “They will have the chance to purchase trucks that meet the standards of the largest global fleet operators without prohibitively expensive retrofitting costs.”

TSR has a longstanding commitment to this work on a global scale. For example, after implementing TSR’s recommended Vision Zero strategies, the state of São Paulo experienced a 13% reduction in road fatalities across 64 towns and cities, and Shanghai municipality saw an astounding 90% reduction in intervening road fatalities. TSR recently launched a Truck of the Future pilot program with vehicles from the City of New York that identifies and tests innovative and cost-effective solutions to eliminate collisions between large vehicle operators and vulnerable road users; later this year this pilot will expand internationally, working with a private sector fleet in Mexico City.

“The new Fleet Trucking Global Safety Standards Initiative aligns directly with the UN’s Vision Zero goals, and should be supported by fleet truck operators around the world,” said Richard Kent, TSR Board Member and President of Global Sales at VisionTrack. “We invite businesses, governments and organizations around the world to join us in this important work.”

“On any given day, we have nearly 16,000 trucks on the road, and safety remains a top concern. Republic Services is thrilled to support the Fleet Trucking Global Safety Standards Initiative to bring better information and shared standards to all fleet trucking in the U.S. and globally,” said Jim Olson, Together for Safer Roads Board Member and VP of Safety at Republic Services Inc. “This effort will help all fleet truck companies better serve their communities.”

About Together For Safer Roads

As the leading NGO focused on building cross-sector partnerships to improve fleet trucking safety, Together for Safer Roads (TSR) leverages private-sector technology, data, and expertise to create innovative programs aimed at preventing traffic crashes, injuries, and fatalities around the globe. TSR’s members represent some of the largest and most important fleets in the world, as well as pre-eminent road safety technology companies. TSR works with governments, businesses, and community stakeholders on local projects, fleet safety management, and technology initiatives with the goal to eventually reach Vision Zero – the total elimination of traffic fatalities and severe injuries. www.togetherforsaferroads.com

Contact: Judy Klym
judy@agletstrategies.com
203-921-9039

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The technology fund will support fleet safety in essential services and purpose-based organizations

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@TSRCoalition and presenting sponsors @UPS_foundation & @calamp announce inaugural vision zero technology fund to support fleet safety in essential services and purpose-based organizations – https://bit.ly/3nHBPp7 #fleetsafety #visionzero #roadsafety

NEW YORK — Jan. 11, 2021 — Together for Safer Roads (TSR) today announces a first-of-its-kind grantmaking program for purpose-based organizations. The fund will underwrite the adoption of lifesaving vehicle technologies and will assist in its implementation among essential service organizations’ fleet operations. TSR members The UPS Foundation and CalAmp are serving as presenting sponsors to the inaugural Vision Zero Technology Fund.

Like the seat belt and airbag before them, new technologies such as vehicle telematics, backup cameras, blindspot and forward-collision warning systems, side guards and others keep vehicle occupants safe and reduce catastrophic collisions with vulnerable road users.

“We are thrilled to be at the forefront of not only the cutting edge, but meaningful, technological interventions that tackle real-world challenges to empower nonprofits, essential services and businesses alike,” said Jeff Gardner, CEO of CalAmp.

To put the intractability of road safety into perspective, there are more than 335 million commercial vehicles on the road, and 25% of all work-related fatalities are transportation related. Road crashes account for 1.35 million deaths per year and is the top killer for those under the age 25. TSR believes that one aspect to reducing fatalities and serious injuries on the world’s roads is to ensure that fleet vehicles have access to lifesaving vehicle technology.

Vision Zero Technology Fund Recipient City HarvestWhile in pre-launch mode, TSR was able to test the fund by granting $20,000 to City Harvest, New York City’s largest food rescue organization, to install back-up cameras, convex mirrors and side-view cameras.

“Every day, City Harvest’s food rescue trucks are on the streets of New York City rescuing and delivering food for New Yorkers who need help putting meals on their tables,” said Nigel Reid, director of transportation at City Harvest. “It is crucial that we are as safe and secure as possible while we operate around this very busy city. Our drivers appreciate the safety equipment we have been able to get thanks to Together for Safer Roads because it lets them focus on our mission — getting food to our neighbors in need.”

The Vision Zero Tech Fund is a grant that will support essential businesses, non-profit organizations, governments and others to acquire, install and implement new safety technology for up to two years.

“We know we’re not going to be able to put this technology everywhere, but nonprofits and other purpose-based organizations struggle the most with affording this technology,” shared David Braunstein, TSR president. “We will work with recipients of the tech fund to incorporate lifesaving safety technology into their daily operations.”

TSR has also recently committed to the Stockholm Declaration, an ambitious and forward-looking resolution connecting road safety to the 2030 Agenda. In practice, it marked the kick-off of the second Decade of Road Safety on behalf of the United Nations, the World Health Organization and the Swedish government.

“Road safety is a huge, complex problem around the globe and one we center a lot of our community-based work around,” adds Nikki Clifton, president of social impact and The UPS Foundation. “Few nonprofits have the budgets to put in lifesaving vehicle technology. As a longtime member and supporter of TSR, we were thrilled to serve as a presenting sponsor and help them make this fund a reality.”