When it's time to have an amazing and luxurious party, many
people choose to rent party buses for hire. These buses are a popular choice for having a great time. But, even
though parties are all about fun, safety is super important. Whether you own a
party bus or you're someone looking to rent one for your special event,
following safety rules is a must. It keeps everyone safe while they're having a
blast on the party bus!
In this blog, we will break down the basic safety guidelines
that both the owners and clients should adhere to ensure an environment that is
not just fun but safe for all passengers too.
Navigating UTC Safety Rules
Navigating UTC Safety Rules is crucial, ensuring that every
bus trip, including transportation for weddings, is safe and worry-free for passengers. These regulations applies
to all buses regardless if it is a big or a small one
Starting off with UTC rule WAC 480-30-191 which states that
for a bus traveling with 15 passengers, its company needs to have insurance of
around $1.5 million.
With the number of passengers growing, the amount of
insurance increases too for example. With a bus exceeding the passenger limit of
15, the insurance must be of $5 million. These insurances work as a shield for
passenger's safety.
And it doesn't stop there. UTC also adheres to federal rules
such as:
Driver Skills: Drivers need to acquire a certain license
before they are approved to drive or rent a party bus.
Time on the Road: A driver cannot drive without any break.
There are a set of rules on how long a driver can drive before taking time to
rest.
Staying Clean and Sober: Before starting the journey,
drivers need to go through a drug test to make sure they are sober enough to
drive all the passengers.
Keeping Records: Companies must maintain records of all
their past trips to ensure they are adhering to the guidelines.
Making Sure Buses are Fit: before getting passengers onboard,
buses need to go through a safety check to make sure they are fit for the
passengers to ride.
Learning and Training: Drivers take special training
sessions before they are made responsible for a ride.
Taking care of buses: buses need to be maintained regularly
to ensure they are fit for a ride all around the year.
And there you have it- a melody of safety, composed out of
safety rules that promise a secure journey. Thus the next time you hop on a bus
journey remember these guidelines as your favorite song that you listen to all
ride long.
California's Safety Laws for Under-21 Passengers
In 2011, California instigated a special law called AB 45
centered around the party buses run by charter companies. These rules are
extremely imperative to follow especially for youngsters.
The rule states that if the company allows the passengers to
have alcohol onboard, they must ensure that every minor (under 21) passenger on
the bus is accompanied by a guardian (chaperone). The guardian will be
responsible for the following tasks:
1. They need to sign an agreement stating that they have
fully understood their job responsibility.
2. They need to go through every passenger's ID, identifying
who is underage and who is not.
3. Before the journey starts, they must announce that
drinking is prohibited for anyone under the age of 21 regardless of the
circumstances.
4. If they catch any underage drinking during the ride, they
must report it immediately to the driver.
And here is the real deal. If anyone underage drinks during
the ride and something wrong happens due to it, the chaperone will be held
responsible since it's their duty to make sure all youngsters travel safely and
follow the rules.
Beside that, here are a few more guidelines related to
alcohol on bus journeys that you must be acquainted with.
No drugs allowed: regardless of the age, no illegal drugs
can be bought on the ride or the passenger carrying it will be reported to the
police.
No smoking allowed: No passenger is allowed to smoke inside
the bus, if they are caught doing so, they might have to face a penalty.
No alcohol for minors: No underage passenger is allowed to
drink alcohol onboard or they might be excluded from the ride.
Lastly, as per the state law, before starting the ride, the
driver must have an agreement with all the youngsters on the bus that under no
circumstances they will approach alcohol to ensure a safe and sound journey for
all.
Party Bus Safety Advice for Responsible Company Owners
Generally all party bus owners stick to the road safety
rules however there is always a small percentage of drivers whose careless
behavior stains the rapport of the entire industry. For instance, around
80 to 90% of drivers adhere to all road laws, the remaining 10% are the ones
who cause the real trouble.
These companies also try to hide from the eyes of security
which might catch them using unqualified drivers and vehicles. The catch here
is that these companies offer their buses on a ridiculously low price, luring
more and more customers in and putting their safety on stake.
If you are a limo owner then here are some guidelines you
must follow to appear as a responsible choice for bus journeys.
Safety First: educate your clients on how the cheaper
options do not value their safety at all. Most people are oblivious about the
difference between high-priced and cheap party buses. Let your clients know how
their safety is your primary concern.
Show Who You Are: do not appear as a sketchy company who is
trying to stay hidden from the eyes of authority. Put your company's name and
vehicle number on the bus where it is apparent to everyone.
Keep Things in Check: always have verified paperwork ready
by your side to show that you are following all guidelines. Make sure your
vehicles are in good shape and fit for long journeys.
Bottom Line
Party buses are the symbol of thrill and having the time of
your life with your loved ones however no fun is complete without safety.
Whether you are the driver, the company owner or a passenger, sticking to rules
is important for everyone.
Remember, no underage drinking and everyone should buckle up
while the bus is moving. Drivers need to be trustworthy, and the bus must be in
good shape. And if you're ever curious about the rules, just ask “ being honest
builds trust.