Press Release
PUC Urges Consumers to Choose Certificated Limo Carriers During Wedding and Prom Season
Published on 4/24/2008
Filed under: Transportation and Safety
HARRISBURG – Before booking plans for transportation to and from a prom or wedding this season, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) urges consumers to check the backgrounds of limousine carriers to verify that they are authorized and properly insured for travel.
“When hiring a limousine carrier for your special event, safety should be a top priority,” said PUC Chairman Wendell F. Holland. “By choosing a limo carrier that is uninsured, unsafe or provides poor service, you may be putting yourself, your friends and loved ones in danger. The PUC works to protect consumers by requiring limousine providers to obtain a certificate to ensure reliable service and safety.”
Pennsylvania limousine services in all areas outside of the city of Philadelphia are required to obtain a PUC certificate of public convenience for transporting passengers within the state. The PUC monitors certificated carriers for insurance coverage, driver and vehicle safety, rates, territory and service. They must also charge rates in accordance with their official tariff on file with the PUC.
The Philadelphia Parking Authority has jurisdiction over limousines providing service between points within the city of Philadelphia, and service from an airport, railroad station or hotel located in Philadelphia. Limousine carriers may hold operating authority from both the PUC and the Parking Authority.
The PUC encourages consumers planning a special event not to sign a contract to use a limousine or other transportation service that does not hold a PUC certificate number. The numbers begin with A-000 or A-001 and consist of a total of 8 digits. Without that number, a limousine service may not legally provide transportation service in the state outside of Philadelphia.
For additional information, consumers may visit the PUC Web site. If a consumer wishes to contact the Public Utility Commission to check the violation history of a carrier or the status of their authority, they may contact the PUC toll free at 800-757-3677 or one of the district offices located closest to where the transportation will take place at:
Altoona 814-946-7318
Harrisburg 717-787-7598
Philadelphia 215-965-3721
Pittsburgh 412-565-3553
Scranton 570-963-4590
Division Headquarters 717-783-5010
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.
For recent news releases, audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our Web site at www.puc.state.pa.us.
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Contact:
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Denise McCracken
Senior Communications Specialist
717-787-5722
demccracken@pa.gov
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