Assemblyman Jones: Requiring Proper Seatbelts in Limousines Can Save Lives
Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Plattsburgh) announced that he helped pass a bill requiring the installation of approved seatbelts in limousines operating in New York (A.9057). The legislation was written following a devastating accident in Schoharie County that claimed the lives of 20 people in October 2018. The crash was the nations deadliest transportation accident in nine years.[1]
Its been over a year since the horrific crash that caused unimaginable pain and forever scarred that community, said Jones. Its truly crushing careless oversight and lax regulations caused the death of 20 people on what was supposed to be a joyous day. While we can never bring back the lives lost, legislation like this can help prevent future tragedies from occurring and ensure no community has to suffer a heartbreaking loss.
The bill would require all stretch limousines to have approved seatbelts installed, and that they be accessible, visible and in good working condition. The legislation is part of a limousine safety package designed to strengthen the rules and guidelines behind limousine transportation in New York State. People use limousines for a variety of occasions and it is imperative companies uphold high safety standards to help prevent tragedies like this, noted Jones.
____________________________________________[1] timesunion.com/news/article/20-killed-in-Schoharie-limousine-crash-13288015.php