Some 170 long-distance and other tourist buses in Beijing have been equipped with black boxes, similar to the flight recorders used in planes, to document information while on the road.

Driving information such as time, speed and mileage will be recorded by the black boxes, while the buses' license plate number, color and driver's license number will also be registered to ensure all necessary information is immediately on hand if an accident should occur.

Experts point out the black boxes can also help traffic police identify who or what is at fault in traffic and other accidents.

Sources say the city will consider promoting the use of black boxes if current trial operations are successful. 

(CRI.com May 11, 2004)