subject: Transportation Licensing and Insurance [print this page] Tourism is thriving, and it helps drive America's economy. Short, day trips by bus are becoming more popular. For those organizing them, bus trips require a great deal of planning. Before executing a trip, the proper licenses, certifications, and insurance all need to be obtained. These are just several details of paramount importance that need to be addressed.
Licenses:
In America, the DMV issues twelve different types of licenses. From motorcycles to trucks, drivers are required to have specific permits. Operating a vehicle without the proper license can lead to fines, a criminal record, and even jail time. Similarly, if a company is conducting bus trips without the proper license or certifications, civil and criminal penalties may ensue. To travel safely and legally throughout the country, ensure that your company has the proper licenses and certifications.
Buses are commercial vehicles. To operate a commercial vehicle, a driver must have a Class B commercial driver's license. Drivers conducting bus tours or trips need more than a Class B license; bus drivers need an additional certification, known as a brokerage license, to carry more than 15 people. A knowledgeable insurance agent can assist a driver in deciding what license they need, and if any additional certifications are necessary. Before hiring a driver to conduct your company's tour, confirm that he/she is properly licensed.
Insurance:
From commercial truck insurance to coverage for a family's minivan, the law requires every vehicle to be insured. Unlike non-commercial vehicles, however, a brief call to a company like Safe Auto won't adequately insure a commercial vehicle. For example, semi-truck insurance is very different from the insurance needed for a pickup. Any company utilizing commercial vehicles needs to take the appropriate steps to insure their vehicle.
Along with proper licensing, any company operating commercial vehicles needs to be appropriately insured. This means that a business should have a bus or truck driver insurance policy. These policies may include liability coverage to insure the physical bus operator. The passengers, company, and driver leave themselves vulnerable to a multitude of legal problems without a properly insured company and driver.
Vacation travel can be tiring enough without the hassle of driving to and from a destination. This is one reason why many people find guided tours or bus trips so appealing. However, before climbing into that air conditioned bus, ask a few basic questions. Make sure that the company you're traveling with is properly licensed and insured.
Transportation Licensing and Insurance
By: Sharp
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