Advice on hiring a StRetch Limousine
What year is the vehicle?
Newer cars will have the latest equipment and may cost more to hire. If you go for the lowest quote you may be disappointed when an old car turns up for your special occasion.This is why it is a good idea to ask if you can view the limousine, inside and out before making your choice. Vehicles used for nightclub trips may have suffered more wear and tear, which is not something you would want to experience on your special day.
Is the Limousine Licensed?
If you hire an unlicensed vehicle there could be serious consequences. Quite simply if a vehicle is not licensed it is not insured for carrying passengers for reward. Licensing of these vehicles is for the protection of the people using them.
A ‘Fancy’ advert does not mean the company is licensed, always ask to see formal written proof and drivers badges; licensed operators will always carry them.
Wedding and funeral cars are the only exceptions. A licensed vehicle will have been thoroughly examined to ensure that it is safe to carry members of the public. Stretch limos that can legally carry more than 8 passengers are very rare.
The Driver
Has the driver been vetted by the Criminal Records Bureau? (Especially important for children’s parties and school proms). Will the driver be smartly presented and is there an option for him to wear a hat to match up to the presentation of your big occasion?
It is also worth checking that the operator is prepared to decorate the limousine to match your theme or colour scheme for a wedding. Will they add flowers and matching bows and ribbons, and is this included in the quoted price?
Is the vehicle Safe?
Vehicle manufacturers such as Lincoln encourage the conversion of their cars to stretch limousines and offer guidelines to coachbuilders to make sure that the converted car remains roadworthy and safe. This isnt always the case with some other makes of standard car that have been customised to become Limo's.
Some areas such as Wigan run a Council Safety Test to make sure that the limousines on their roads meet the strictest of safety standards.