FMCSA unveils measures to improve bus passenger safety

To help ensure passengers traveling by bus are safe, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has unveiled new measures to improve existing standards. The FMCSA will now require more rigorous commercial driver’s license testing standards and will encourage new rules to strengthen passenger carrier and driver compliance with federal safety regulations. Consumers will be empowered to review safety records themselves before booking with bus companies.

Also, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced that the FMCSA will be partnering more with state law enforcement for more surprise motorcoach inspections at popular travel destinations during the peak travel season.

The FMCSA is also proposing to require new motorcoach companies to undergo a full safety audit before receiving U.S. DOT operating authority.

“The public deserves affordable and efficient passenger bus services – but more importantly safe bus services,” said FMCSA Administrator Anne Ferro. “These measures will help us to better identify and swiftly weed out unsafe and irresponsible operators.”

For more, visit www.fmcsa.dot.gov.