May 1, 2007 - - Whether you're planning to charter a bus for a shopping trip to a Michigan outlet mall, a Tigers baseball game, or a trip to the Mackinac Bridge for the annual bridge walk, you should keep safety, quality, and compliance with regulations in mind when choosing a motor coach.
The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) recommends a simple checklist of common sense tips to help you wisely select a motor coach operator that meets all your group's needs.
"We want consumers to be educated about the motor coach business, and to understand there are specific safety rules that all for-hire buses must follow," said Sharon Edgar, administrator, MDOT Passenger Transportation. "It's important not to shop solely based on price. There are more than 200 carriers licensed by the state. Make sure you choose a carrier that has complied 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 Info." 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.
The following safety tips can assist you in hiring a motor coach.
- Take your business to a reputable company: Never charter a bus from someone who does not have a certificate to provide charter bus service. It is easy to find out if they have this authority by calling the MDOT Passenger Transportation Bureau at 517-241-0679, or 517-241-0680, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, (or by checking the Web site).
- 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 safety violations to MDOT: Does the driver appear to be reckless? Is the bus overcrowded? Is luggage blocking aisles and emergency exits? MDOT wants to know. Call 517-335-2574 to report.
- 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.
- 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: Providing the highest quality integrated transportation services for economic benefit and improved quality of life.
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