ST. PAUL, Minn. — Spring time brings a variety of events
such as proms, graduations, weddings and outdoor sporting events. It’s the time
of year when people rent buses, limousines and other passenger vehicles to get
to their destinations. The Minnesota Department of Transportation has some tips
about renting vehicles so the trip is safe.
“One of the best things to remember is to never book with
a company that can’t show you their licensing and insurance credentials,” said
Becky Ellinghuysen, Office of Freight and Commercial Vehicle Operations, which
licenses and regulates more than 400 limousine operators and 350 passenger
carriers in the state.
Ellinghuysen said limousine and party bus renters should
check with MnDOT to make sure the operator is properly licensed and has the
proper levels of insurance. MnDOT can also provide the carrier’s safety rating.
All for-hire motor carriers of passengers and limousine service providers are
required to carry commercial insurance and be registered with the state. To
verify the information, call MnDOT’s Office of Freight and Commercial Vehicle
Operations at 651-366-6330.
Once a company is chosen, potential renters should ask
the company to see copies of the vehicle’s most recent annual vehicle
inspection report, limousine or motor carrier of passenger certificate, and the
cab card for each vehicle.
In the limousine industry, the quality and price of the
services doesn’t always go hand in hand. Cheapest is not always the best
option. The limousine or bus may not meet expectations. Persons should always
ask to see the vehicle they are renting prior to signing a contract with the
operator.
Other tips for choosing a safe and licensed limo/bus
operator:
· Shop
for the best company. Contact MnDOT to get the company’s safety rating. Book
only with companies that have a satisfactory rating. The rating indicates that
the vehicles have been inspected and that the operator has safety management
practices in place to ensure safe drivers and vehicles are being used.
· Choose
your ride. Figure out exactly how many people will be in your group. This will
help to determine the type of vehicle you need. Ask the company to show you the
specific vehicle you will be renting.
· Get
a signed contract. Reliable and professional services will provide a signed
service contract.
· Read
the contract carefully. The contract should include terms such as cost, deposit
required, refund and tip policies, pick-up and drop-off times, arrival and
departure locations, specific type of limo requested, and services
expected.
Ellinghuysen also reminds renters that alcoholic beverages are not allowed to be consumed by or in the possession of a minor. Drivers typically monitor passengers to make certain that alcohol is not being used by a minor. If alcoholic beverages are found, the driver may choose to return the passengers to their original pick-up location.
MnDOT, along with local law enforcement, routinely
conduct inspections of limousines and buses during special events, Ellinghuysen
added. For questions,
contact MnDOT’s Office of Freight and Commercial Vehicle Operations at
651-215-6330.
