In light of a number of recent incidents with party buses, there are many people debating where the responsibilities lie for a limo driver when operating a party bus, especially when it comes to the passenger’s consumption of alcohol and behaviors stemming from drinking.
First and foremost, a driver is responsible for ensure that passengers safely arrive to their destination. They are responsible for driving safely and according to the rules of the road. But, what about passenger conduct? Should drivers be responsible for the actions of the passengers in the limo bus? Should they be responsible for how much alcohol people consume when they are on the party bus? Shouldn’t passengers be responsible and manage their drinking according to their own limits?
These are important questions to ask, but the answers are not cut and try. Asking the driver of a limo bus to be a safe and effective driver is one thing, but asking them to police the behaviour of their passengers is a completely different debate.
Should drivers also be asked to assume the role of bouncer? If they are, does this not take their attention away from the road? We all know the implications of distracted driving, and asking limo drivers to also monitor unruly passengers may be too much to ask.
A limo bus driver’s job is to focus on driving and attending to patrons needs to ensure they have a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable ride. The truth is that passengers in the limo party bus need to be responsible for their own behavior, especially when it comes to drinking. You need to know your limits no matter where you are, let alone on a limo bus. Taking responsibility for your own actions will help ensure you are safe, but will also ensure that you will not put anyone else’s safety at risk either.
We are sure this will not be the last time this debate is explored and it will be interesting to see where it goes and how it will impact limo bus regulations and bylaws into the future.
What are your thoughts on this topic?
