April 23, 2009 -- If you're planning a trip for a school, or an excursion to one of Michigan's great attractions, chartering a bus is one of the most practical and affordable ways to go. The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) reminds you to keep safety, quality and compliance with regulations in mind when choosing a motor coach.
"We want consumers to be educated about the motor coach business," said Sharon Edgar, MDOT's Bureau of Passenger Transportation administrator. "Don't let price be your sole guide. There are more than 200 carriers licensed by the state and we want to be sure you choose a carrier that fits your needs, your wallet, and complies with safety regulations."
MDOT requires each motor coach company to carry liability insurance and Michigan no-fault insurance, and to pass a mechanical bus safety inspection conducted by MDOT inspectors. A list of more than 200 licensed carriers is available on the MDOT Web site at www.michigan.gov/mdot. Under "Favorite Links" click on "Bus and Limo Licensing." Look under "Commercial Buses," then click on "Current List of Carriers." If you do not see a bus company listed, it is likely that the operator is providing service illegally and should not be hired.
MDOT offers a simple checklist of common sense tips to help you wisely select a motor coach operator that meets all your group's needs.
- Take your business to a reputable company. Never charter a bus from someone who does not have a certificate of authority to provide charter bus service. It is easy to find out if they have this authority by calling the MDOT Bureau of Passenger Transportation at 517-241-0679, or 517-241-0680, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, (or by checking MDOT's Web site).
- Remember that a simple advertisement in the phone book or newspaper does not guarantee that the operator is licensed.
- Put safety above economy. All privately owned bus companies must undergo annual safety inspections of all buses, carry insurance, and limit the number of hours that are driven on a trip. These required items may end up costing more, but protect the safety of the consumer.
- Be wary of bargains. Bus companies able to offer drastically reduced rates to charter or tour groups may be forced to cut corners on bus maintenance work, safety compliance, or comfort features.
- Consider the needs of your group. The size of your group and the distance traveled should be considered along with your group's budget when selecting a company.
- Make sure you put your agreement in writing. Document, in writing, the services to be provided, as well as the costs. Ask for a copy of the company's policy regarding the steps they will take to minimize trip delays or disruptions as a result of vehicle problems.
- Report possible mechanical vehicle safety violations to MDOT. Did the vehicle have a major mechanical problem? Were the emergency exits clearly labeled for easy use? MDOT wants to know. Call 517-335-2574, or e-mail MDOT-BusLimo@michigan.gov to file a report. All reports are confidential.
- Report non-safety complaints to the company first. If you do not receive satisfactory action from the company, complaints unrelated to safety can be filed with the Attorney General, Consumer Complaint and Protection Division, at 517-373-1140, or online at secure1.state.mi.us/complaints/consumer.aspx.
- Be a good passenger. Respect the company's property, the needs of the driver, and all safety regulations for the protection and comfort of all on board. Your group should understand in advance of your trip what rules must be followed.
For further information about selecting a quality motor coach operator, particularly if your bus must cross state lines or travel into Canada, go to the American Bus Association Web site at www.buses.org and search for "Consumer Travel Tips."
MDOT: Working with our partners at airports, bus systems, marine and rail to find innovative solutions for Michigan's transportation systems.
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