Limo safety concerns after recent crash
California is one of the few states to enact safety measures to protect passengers traveling in limousines. After a limo fire killed five women in 2013, California regulators took action by requiring limo companies to install emergency exits and provide safety briefings to their passengers. Now, a deadly limo accident in New York is raising more awareness about crashes involving large limousines.
In July, four women were killed and four others were seriously injured on Long Island when the limo they were riding in was broadsided by another vehicle. At the time, the limo was performing a U-turn, and the driver of the second vehicle was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol. The chief of police in Southold, New York, said that there were no airbags in the limo and he is not aware if any of the passengers had seat belts on.
Another limo accident that made headlines was the one involving comedian Tracy Morgan that occurred in 2014. After that accident, the National Transportation Safety Board began preparing safety recommendations for limos. Right now, there are only 28 states where adults riding in the back of limousines are required to wear seat belts.
A person who has been injured in a motor vehicle accident may want to meet with an attorney to discuss the advisability of seeking damages from the responsible parties. Often, other drivers will be held responsible because they performed a reckless maneuver or drove while they were drowsy or intoxicated. There are also some car accident cases where the vehicle manufacturer is partially or solely liable for the victim’s injuries.
Source: CBS News, “Deadly Long Island crash raises questions about limo safety,” Kris Van Cleave, July 20, 2015