Prom season is here! As a livery vehicle operator, you are most likely booked for the next few weekends. Many parents opt for limousine transportation to ensure the safety of their teenagers going to and from the highly anticipated high school event.

While it may seem simple to take these kids to and from the prom, it is much more complicated than that. Have you considered the consequences of having drunk passengers? Have you thought about how you will handle any fights or issues that could break out among your passengers? Now is the time to put together a contract. Nothing is more important than covering your business from the worst case scenario. As your trusty livery insurance provider, we have put together a few tips to avoid any legal issues on prom night:

• Understand that while a student under the age of 18 can call and book the limousine, a parent or guardian must accompany him or her when you arrive at the residence (in order to sign contracts.)

• Consideration should be given to having all passengers as well as one of their parents sign a consent form. This form should state the following: there will be zero-tolerance for carrying any weapons, drinking, drug-use, fighting or misbehaving in the limo. That the parties agree that should anything like this occur, certain procedures, as described in the consent form, will be followed. Also, that each parent signing this agreement will be jointly and severally liable for damages and injuries sustained as a result of the failure to adhere to these procedures.

• We suggest you reserve the right to search anyone and any bags brought into the limousine for drugs, alcohol or weapons.

• Restrict the individuals allowed into the limousine to only those that have executed a consent form.

Taking these precautions will not only benefit your passengers, but your business as well. It is not uncommon for police officers and officials to set up “spot checks” and stop limousines. If your limo is inspected and underage teens are found with illegal substances, you will be held accountable!

At Wolpert Insurance, we want to make sure your business is ready to handle the worst case scenario. While prom should be carefree and fun, it may end up costing your company it’s reputation or money if you are not careful and prepared for the worst. The first step to safety: protecting your business with livery insurance. Feel free to contact our agency for a free quote!

Just to recap quickly, last week we discussed how to get noticed as a livery operator in order to expand your affiliate network. We shared everything from tips on how to stand out, such as arriving 15 minutes early and keeping your livery vehicle clean to being prepared to disclose your livery insurance information to affiliates in order to submit an application.

This week, we have put together a list of the three types of affiliate networks. It is important to know how each of these affiliate systems work!

#1: First program is a group of companies that know each other and share business back and forth. This is a casual program, with no contracts, applications or insurance certificates. Many times, this type of program exists in the same city or geographic area.

#2: The second program is much more formal than the first. It is a relationship between a network and affiliates bound by paperwork. They are considered “official affiliates” in the network database.

#3: The third program is a franchise agreement. This is the most formal program out of the three, mainly because it has the greatest benefits. The franchisee will benefit from this program by nationwide advertisement and access to the company computer system to place and receive orders. Talk about expansion!

Under terms, an operator can purchase a franchise from other companies. Once the initial investment is made, the franchise gives exclusive rights in a specific area and the ability to use the company logo and brand on your letterhead, business cards, website and vehicles. The livery driver will also be provided with a set of company manuals and procedures as well as corporate support of your operations for a monthly fee based on the percentage of sales.

Having a general overview of these three affiliate programs will benefit you as a livery operator.

At Wolpert Insurance, we want to make sure you are well-educated on all aspects of the livery business! We also want to make sure you are well protected. Be sure to grab a free livery insurance quote from us. We are ready to provide you with coverage such as automobile, workers compensation, general liability, employment liability and much more.

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Starting your own limousine business can be intimidating; especially with all the big guys you may be competing with! However, just because you are starting out small, does not mean you will not grow over time and make a name for yourself. The key: to get noticed and expand your affiliate network.

Once you have purchased your livery vehicle, have your livery insurance squared away and started advertising, it’s time to get noticed. Here are a few steps and tips:

• Always be 15 minutes early to a job to impress clients. If for some reason you are going to be late, it is your responsibility to call the network dispatch.

• Make sure your vehicles are always looking their best.

• Call upon large networks and establish yourself with them.

• When you call, be prepared to provide documentation and specific information in advance. This information will include: rate information, fleet information, company history, reference, etc.

• Ask to speak with an affiliate manager in order to receive an application package. Be prepared to disclose your livery insurance information, how long you have been in business, a copy of your authority to operate and client references.

• Never mention or market your own company when you are working for a network.

If you really want to get noticed, you will not mind going through these steps! While it may seem like a hassle, it is still worth a shot; it is a sure way to get noticed!

Remember, if you do get called upon and something goes wrong, the network will want protection from your insurance carrier. At Wolpert Insurance, we will be here to back you up 100% with our comprehensive livery insurance. Our program can include coverage such as automobile, workers compensation, employment liability, group automobile and much more. Contact us today for a free quote!

Accidents happen to the best of us, whether we drive a truck, convertible or livery vehicle. This is why we have coverage in place! As a livery vehicle operator, you know that your livery insurance will be there to take care of the damages and liability issues, but you do have your own set of responsibilities, too.

If you are involved in an accident and your livery vehicle is wrecked, it is important to remember a few things:

1. Make sure everyone is okay and call for medical attention if needed.

2. The livery operator MUST provide a full description of the facts and loss, as soon as possible.

3. Take photos of any physical damage to the other vehicles.

4. Secure law enforcement reports.

5. Always identify ALL parties to the loss (other drivers, occupants of your livery vehicle, other individuals, etc.)

6. Collect all witnesses and claimant’s personal information. The personal information you will need: insurance information, name, address, driver’s license, phone number.

7. Document and keep a record of all the time and expenses associated with the loss of vehicle, repair damages, tow and storage costs, deductibles, etc.

8. Comply with your company’s drug testing policy as soon as possible.

9. Notify Dispatch and arrange to have your client transported to their final destination if they are not injured.

Losing your livery vehicle will be an inconvenience, but having the proper livery insurance in place will make this incident much easier to deal with. Never hesitate to reach out to us at Wolpert Insurance. We would be happy to speak with you about your options and supply you with a free quote!

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Last week, we went over livery licensing rules and regulations. Another important aspect of these regulations would be capacity rules. As your trusty livery insurance provider, we would like to share these capacity rules with you so both you and your drivers do not face any legal issues.

First, a designated livery vehicle is permitted to have a capacity of 15 passengers or less. If you are driving a bus, there will be different rules pertaining to your fleet.

Second, if your vehicle has a capacity of nine passengers or more, you must file an application for the right to transport passengers for hire from the Transportation Division, Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications and Energy. You can find an application form on the Transportation Division website, which should be completed and mailed along with a check or money order for a $100 application fee (made out to the Transportation Division).

We at Wolpert Insurance believe that it is important to understand all rules and regulations that pertain to your livery business; from capacity laws to the proper coverage. Lucky for Massachusetts drivers, we offer comprehensive livery insurance designed specifically for your unique business. Be sure to speak with one of our experts about your options, including automobile insurance, workers compensation, general liability, umbrella insurance, employment liability and much more.

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As a livery operator, it is important to be aware of all livery rules and regulations to avoid running into any legal issues. Besides being covered with the proper livery insurance, it is important for your company vehicles to be properly licensed.

If you are not aware of this vital information, have no fear. Our experts at Wolpert Insurance have the facts right here for you:

• All livery drivers in Massachusetts MUST be licensed to drive the particular vehicle that they operator.

• The vehicle that you will be driving must be legal to transport passengers.

• You may register your livery vehicle with the RMV once you have obtained your Federal Tax ID number.

• You must purchase livery plates for the vehicle you will be using to transport passengers. The minimum payment will be $80 per vehicle.

• Vehicles that have seven or fewer passenger seats will be charged an additional fee of $6 per seat.

• Vehicles that have more than seven seats will be charged an additional $8 per seat.

For any other questions, concerns or simply more information, check out the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles. All livery licensing issues can be handled through the RMV!

As for coverage, you can turn to us at Wolpert Insurance. We would be happy to discuss our policies designed specifically for your unique business. From automobile insurance to employment liability, our livery insurance policy will protect you from the worst case scenario!

With St. Patrick’s Day this weekend, now is a great time to discuss issues that may occur if you will be allowing passengers to drink in your livery vehicle. It is no secret that this weekend will be filled with drinking and celebrations. If you will be transporting people to and from bars, it is important to know what your responsibilities are.

At Wolpert Insurance, we are here to provide your company with the proper livery insurance. However, we are also here to keep you safe from the possible lawsuit that could arise from a simple mistake. Sadly, a simple mistake is what happened back in 2008 when the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial court ruled that a limousine driver had the responsibility to prevent their passengers from drinking and driving.

The driver picked up several men at a bar in South Boston after a night of drinking at a bachelor party. The limo driver then drove them to a strip club in Rhode Island and even stopped to purchase more alcohol for the passengers, allowing them to drink in the limo. As the night came to an end, the driver dropped one man off at his car back in South Boston, knowing that he would be driving home while intoxicated. The consequence? One man was killed and several others were injured.

The victims of the crash attempted to sue the limo service for wrongful death and personal injuries because the driver should have simply known that the man would attempt to drive home drunk. While the trial court dismissed the case, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court picked it back up and claimed that the limo driver had the responsibility to use reasonable care to avoid discharging its drunken passenger.

The bottom line: as a livery driver and operator, it is your full responsibility to make sure your passengers who have been drinking do not drive home drunk after being dropped off. Private carriers are required to exercise “reasonable care” to make sure that none of its intoxicated passengers are going to attempt to drive once the night comes to an end.

It is also your responsibility to be covered with livery insurance. At Wolpert Insurance, we offer comprehensive limo and livery insurance solutions for your unique business. Contact us for a free quote!

Purchasing a used vehicle may always seem like a gamble; buyers never know what they are getting into! This is exceptionally true when it comes to purchasing a used limousine. Unlike a family vehicle, livery vehicles go through much more rigorous routines, leaving more room for mechanical issues and damages. While you may have reliable livery insurance to fall back on, it is still a pain to have to deal with used-car issues.

Before you purchase a used livery vehicle, it is important to carefully check all items and parts. Here is a helpful list put together by the National Limousine Association to guide you through this process:

1. Engine: The most important part of the vehicle! It is important to listen for any odd noises, check for leaks, check the oil, coolant, all belts and hoses, warning lights that may be on and the cooling system.

2. Driveline and suspension: All drive links and carrier bearings should be properly lubricated. Check the springs, suspension bags, steering assembly, tires and brakes.

3. Exterior: Is the paint cracked or flaking? A new paint job may be necessary. Always check for any signs of rusting as well and do not forget the door handles!

4. Interior: The carpets, seats, belts and overall condition on the inside should still look new. Any signs of tearing, fading or worn-out items should raise a red flag.

5. Transmission: Always check all fluids and make sure there are no signs of leakage. When driving the vehicle, shifting should be smooth.

6. Electrical: All lights, switches, flashers, power seats, interior lights, stereos, TVs and warning signs should be properly working. It is also important to make sure all vents are clean and the air/heating systems are good to go. Your passengers will need to feel comfortable inside your limo.

If the used-vehicle passes this careful inspection, you should be good to go! This process may take time but it is much better to put in the effort now rather than dealing with a faulty vehicle down the line.

Once you have purchased your “new” vehicle, it is crucial to look into reliable coverage. At Wolpert Insurance, we can provide your company with our distinct livery insurance. We offer automobile coverage, workers compensation, employment liability, general liability and a variety of other products and services for your business. If you are interested in grabbing a free quote, do not hesitate to contact our insurance experts!

Good luck with your used-car search!

Purchasing a used vehicle may always seem like a gamble; buyers never know what they are getting into! This is exceptionally true when it comes to purchasing a used limousine. Unlike a family vehicle, livery vehicles go through much more rigorous routines, leaving more room for mechanical issues and damages. While you may have reliable livery insurance to fall back on, it is still a pain to have to deal with used-car issues.

Before you purchase a used livery vehicle, it is important to carefully check all items and parts. Here is a helpful list put together by the National Limousine Association to guide you through this process:

1. Engine: The most important part of the vehicle! It is important to listen for any odd noises, check for leaks, check the oil, coolant, all belts and hoses, warning lights that may be on and the cooling system.

2. Driveline and suspension: All drive links and carrier bearings should be properly lubricated. Check the springs, suspension bags, steering assembly, tires and brakes.

3. Exterior: Is the paint cracked or flaking? A new paint job may be necessary. Always check for any signs of rusting as well and do not forget the door handles!

4. Interior: The carpets, seats, belts and overall condition on the inside should still look new. Any signs of tearing, fading or worn-out items should raise a red flag.

5. Transmission: Always check all fluids and make sure there are no signs of leakage. When driving the vehicle, shifting should be smooth.

6. Electrical: All lights, switches, flashers, power seats, interior lights, stereos, TVs and warning signs should be properly working. It is also important to make sure all vents are clean and the air/heating systems are good to go. Your passengers will need to feel comfortable inside your limo.

If the used-vehicle passes this careful inspection, you should be good to go! This process may take time but it is much better to put in the effort now rather than dealing with a faulty vehicle down the line.

Once you have purchased your “new” vehicle, it is crucial to look into reliable coverage. At Wolpert Insurance, we can provide your company with our distinct livery insurance. We offer automobile coverage, workers compensation, employment liability, general liability and a variety of other products and services for your business. If you are interested in grabbing a free quote, do not hesitate to contact our insurance experts!

Good luck with your used-car search!

Over the past few weeks, we have been discussing techniques for when the time comes to choose the perfect livery vehicle for your fleet. As a livery vehicle operator, you should be aware of all options in order to purchase the best vehicle in the most financially fit way possible. It may be overwhelming when you first think about finances associated with your vehicle, from the vehicle itself to the livery insurance. Luckily, you have options! Let’s talk about the benefits of bank financing versus leasing your vehicle.

Bank Financing:

According to the National Limousine Association, “banks have a menu of items as opposed to leasing companies that most likely have many restrictions on to purely collateralized equipment.” As a livery vehicle operator, you may have a good relationship with your bank and will be able to ask for money. The benefits of bank financing your vehicle are:

• A much lower interest rate;

• A chance to avoid excess mileage fees;

• A chance to avoid hidden fees that a lease may have;

• An easier exit out of the vehicle.

Leasing:

Again, according to the National Limousine Association, “leasing companies borrow money from banks at the best possible rate, and then refinance it out to anyone who wants to borrow it again.” This type of program will benefit:

• People who do not have the best credit score;

• People who may not have a down payment for a vehicle;

• Drivers who may want to choose a different vehicle in a few years down the line;

• Drivers with low-mileage.

Now that you are aware of your options, it is time to make a decision! Once your finances are figured out, it is time to look into our affordable and reliable livery insurance. Without coverage, your vehicle, drivers and company will be at risk each day. After all the time and effort put into choosing the best vehicle for the best price, the last thing you want is to face a financial loss or worse, an uninsured claim from a lawsuit. Be sure to check out our policies, from workers compensation to garage insurance. We would be happy to protect your new vehicle!