Limousine Association Strengthens “Bill of Rights” for Riders

The National Limousine Association (NLA) wants riders to know that when they’re in a limo, their safety is front of mind.

And to underline that point, the group this week announced revisions to its passenger Bill of Rights, along with a driver Duty of Care. Combined, the two measures intend to emphasize that private drivers who are NLA members follow a high standard of conduct, which the group says meshes with the National Transportation Safety Board’s existing safety standards.

Some of the 10 items on the Bill of Rights include proof of proper licensing and vehicle inspections, a pre-trip safety briefing, access to seat belts and child restraints, a quoted fare that matches agreed-upon terms, and air conditioning or heat.

Duty of Care requirements are intended as stringent for both drivers and vehicles, with both having proper licensing—in the case of drivers, criminal background checks, drug testing, driver training, and medical exams; in the case of vehicles, proper insurance, licensing, supervision, and regular inspections.

NLA President Gary Buffo said these standards not only prevent tragedies, but also help to protect drivers in incidents involving liabilities.

“As a leader in the industry, the NLA will continue to push for a recognized operating procedure throughout the country when it comes to safety, while also ensuring that those who put a priority on safety are not financially penalized,” Buffo said in a news release  (opens in a new tab). “Fortifying our Duty of Care and Bill of Rights demonstrates our association’s commitment to strict protocol and the safety of our riders.”

NLA’s efforts on safety have been ongoing—in part because of the rising competition from ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft, whose safety issues the association has been quick to highlight. NLA first launched its rider-safety messaging campaign, called Ride Responsibly  (opens in a new tab), in 2015.