Saturday, February 16, 2008

UK Unveils New Stretch-Limousine Safety Measures

British Road Safety Minister Jim Fitzpatrick has unveiled the first part of a new package of measures to help improve the safe operation of stretched limousines and keep unlawful vehicles off the road.

The new guidelines, published today, will sit alongside new stringent pre-registration checks coming into force in the summer to ensure that stretched limousines with more than eight passenger seats meet GB safety and environmental standards.

According to Fitzpatrick: "The popularity of stretched limousines has soared in Britain and we are determined to ensure that they are used safely. We all know that limousines are great for parties, but it is important that these vehicles meet the required construction standards and are properly licensed and registered.

"This new guidance will help operators to ensure that their vehicles can lawfully be used on our roads. In the summer we will also be introducing a strict pre-registration check to help make sure unsafe stretched limos are kept off our roads."

The new guidance - developed after seeking the views of the limousine industry - details the safety, registration and licensing requirements needed to be met before passengers can lawfully be carried.

Vanessa Arellano Doctor

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