Limousine safety concerns rise after fatal car accident

Limousines are a common sight in California. The potential danger to passengers when riding in one have long been a concern, and a recent accident has exacerbated this worry. Four young women taking a tour of wineries on Long Island were killed when the limousine they were riding in was hit on its side as it made a U-turn. The vehicle that hit them is believed to have been operated by a drunk driver.

Limousines generally do not have airbags in the backseat. Since 2000, there has been a fatal auto accident involving a limousine each year. At least 45 people died in those crashes. Another accident that injured comedian Tracy Morgan and resulted in another person being killed has prompted the National Transportation Safety Board to prepare recommendations for safety.

In California, limousines are required to have an extra emergency exit. Passengers must be given a safety briefing. This was in response to a fire in a limousine in 2013 that killed five women who were unable to get out of the vehicle. In 2005, a head-on collision involving a limousine was recorded on a dashboard camera in which a 7-year-old girl died even though she wore a seat belt.

People who ride in a limousine are placing their trust in the driver and that the vehicle is safe. Given the track record of danger that these vehicles have, being in a crash can still lead to serious personal injuries, hefty medical expenses and even fatalities. Those who have been hurt or lost a loved one in a limousine accident may want to speak to a personal injury attorney in order to determine the remedies that may be available.

Source: CBS News, 'Deadly Long Island crash raises questions about limo safety," Kris Van Cleave, July 20, 2015