With the holiday season in full swing, the Government of B.C. is reminding British Columbians to celebrate safely and make good decisions when riding in limousines, including limo buses, during celebrations.

“Christmas is a time to celebrate the holidays and enjoy time with family and friends,” said Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Todd Stone. “Travel is often part of these celebrations, and we encourage everyone to think ahead about getting home safely by choosing a transportation option that will ensure a safe conclusion to any holiday gathering.”

Operators of limousines and buses with perimeter seating must have a Passenger Transportation licence plate and decal, or temporary operating permit, for every vehicle in their fleet. This allows government and law enforcement to better enforce the industry and motivate operators to provide a service that is safe and compliant with provincial laws.

Both operators and passengers should remember that consuming alcohol in any vehicle is illegal and unsafe. Advertising for limousine and bus services cannot allude to the consumption of alcohol in a company-operated vehicle. Consumers, especially those booking trips for minors, are encouraged to look for companies that advertise strict policies related to drinking in vehicles.

“We all have a role to play to ensure that holiday festivities, formal or informal, are safe, including the transportation to and from these events,” said chief constable Neil Dubord, chair of the B.C. Association of Chiefs of Police Traffic Safety Committee. “Consuming alcohol in any private or commercial vehicle is illegal in B.C., whether the vehicle is moving or not. Police across the province will be out enforcing Motor Vehicle Act and Liquor Control and Licensing Act infractions – we can all help prevent a tragedy by always planning ahead for a safe ride home.”

Police will be monitoring limousines and buses during the holiday season. Operators that allow the consumption of alcohol in their vehicles will be penalized and passengers in these vehicles also have a responsibility to adhere to the liquor laws. Operators who do not comply with liquor laws run the risk of losing their licence, and minors in possession of alcohol are subject to a $230 fine.