As we enter the height of grad and wedding season in Calgary, it’s also one of the busiest times of the year for limos and party buses. But have you ever wondered about the legal implications if your party bus or limousine gets into an accident? What happens if you are injured? Are there rules for drinking onboard? We consulted our lawyers at Car Accident Lawyer Calgary to find out the answers.
Toasting on the Move?
Did you know that drinking in a limousine or party bus is illegal in certain provinces in Canada, such as Calgary? The rules on this vary from province to province, but in Calgary, drinking in a limo or party bus is only permitted under the following conditions:
- The operator has a valid liquor license – While many limousine or party bus operators are fully licensed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Calgary (AGCO), not all of them are. Without this license, they cannot legally provide alcohol. If you plan to drink during your ride, make sure to check with the limo or bus company to ensure they have a liquor license when you are booking your rental. With the exception of wine, any alcohol that is purchased, provided, or consumed in a licensed vehicle must be from the licensee.
- All passengers are of legal drinking age – Although there are no age restrictions for riding in a limousine, minors are not allowed if alcohol is present at the same time. In Calgary, the legal drinking age is 19 years or older.
What if I am Injured in a Limousine or Party Bus Accident?
If you are injured in a limo or party bus accident, you can typically file a Personal Injury claim against the responsible party. But what happens if your driver was partially responsible for the accident? In this case, you may file a claim against all responsible drivers. In Calgary, in the unlikely event that the driver of your limo or party bus was uninsured, involved in a hit-and-run, or hit by an uninsured driver, you may still have an avenue for compensation through the Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Fund (MVACF).
The MVACF is a last resort option for victims of accidents involving uninsured or unidentified drivers in Calgary. It provides compensation of up to $200,000 per person for personal injury claims. However, it’s important to note that the MVACF has specific eligibility criteria and notice requirements that must be met.
If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced Personal Injury lawyer who can guide you through the process and help you understand your options. At Car Accident Lawyer Calgary, we offer free initial consultations with no obligation, so you can get the advice you need without any upfront costs.
Remember, your safety should always be the top priority when celebrating special occasions. By understanding the laws surrounding limo and party bus safety, and knowing what to do in the event of an accident, you can focus on enjoying your special day with peace of mind.
What are the Safety Standards for Your Party Bus or Limousine in Calgary?
In Calgary, both the provincial government and local municipalities have regulations in place to ensure that all vehicle-for-hire services, such as taxis, limousines, and ridesharing companies, meet safety standards and are properly regulated. As a passenger, here’s what you should know:
- The limousine or party bus driver must be fully licensed to operate the vehicle. The driver’s ID, which includes their name and a current photo, should always be displayed in a visible location, typically on the driver’s visor. If you are unable to see the driver’s ID, you have the right to ask to see it.
- With the exception of limousine service at Calgary major airports, drivers are not permitted to pick up customers who hail them on the street or seek out business by approaching potential customers. All trips should be booked in advance to ensure your safety and the legitimacy of the service.
- All ride-for-hire vehicles in Calgary must undergo regular mechanical inspections to ensure they meet safety standards and are roadworthy.
In the event of an accident involving a party bus or limousine in Calgary, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the steps you need to take to protect yourself and your potential claim. Generally, you have up to two years from the date of the accident to file a claim in court, or you may lose your right to do so forever. However, it’s important not to wait, as there could be other critical deadlines or circumstances that may affect your claim.
If you find yourself in this situation, seeking the advice of an experienced Personal Injury lawyer can make all the difference. At Car Accident Lawyer Calgary, we understand the complexities of these cases and are dedicated to helping our clients navigate the legal process with confidence.
Our team of knowledgeable lawyers is here to answer your questions and provide the guidance you need during this challenging time. We believe in making the process as simple and stress-free as possible, which is why we offer free initial consultations and a contingency fee structure, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Don’t let the aftermath of a party bus or limousine accident overwhelm you. Take the first step towards protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve by contacting Car Accident Lawyer Calgary today. You can reach us by phone, fill out our online contact form, or even chat with us directly through our website. We’re here to help you every step of the way, because we believe that everyone deserves access to quality legal representation and support.