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New York crash raises concerns about limo safety

On Behalf of | Oct 31, 2018 | Car Accidents |

West Virginia residents may have heard about the deadly limo crash in New York that was widely covered in October. All 18 passengers in the limousine, the driver and two pedestrians were killed in the crash. The group was heading to a surprise birthday party from a brewery when the crash occurred.

The limo had failed a safety inspection, and it did not have the appropriate federal certification. The group riding in the limo had rented a bus, but it broke down. In New York, every limo designed to carry 10 or more passengers must be inspected twice a year by the state Department of Transportation.

All limo drivers are required to have a valid driver’s license and must be able to pass a medical exam. Drivers who operate vehicles that carry nine or more passengers must have a commercial driver’s license. The driver in the crash that killed 18 passengers did not have the proper license.

Many stretch limousines are regular vehicles that have been modified by custom manufacturers. Because of their size, most limos lack safety features like airbags. Many people in the industry feel that enforcement of current safety regulations is a problem.

Someone who has been injured in a car accident may benefit from speaking to an attorney experienced in personal injury. Car accidents are a common cause of serious injuries and disability. By filing an insurance claim against the negligent driver or against the company that employed the driver, a victim could receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering.