To hire a safe bus company, you need information. It is important to know if your driver is qualified, well-rested and drug- and alcohol-free. You also need to know if the bus has been properly maintained and is in good operating condition. Make sure any company you choose is willing to answer questions about safety and security:

• What is the company’s U.S. DOT number?
  
  
• Does your driver have a current Commercial Driver’s License with a “passenger” endorsement?
  
  
• Does your driver have a valid medical certificate?
  
  
• Does the company have a driver drug- and alcohol-testing program that complies with U.S. DOT regulations?
  
  
• Will your trip be completed within the legal limit of 10 driving hours? If not, will a second driver or overnight rest stop be necessary to perform the trip legally?
  
  
• Are the buses inspected annually? By whom?
  
  
• Does the bus company have the required $5 million of public liability insurance?
  
  
• Does the bus company subcontract for equipment and/or drivers? If so, what is the name of the second bus company and its U.S. DOT number?
  
  
• What company procedures exist for roadside emergencies and breakdowns?

Asking questions is a great start, but it’s not enough. To make sure your trip is safe, you need to enlist the help of someone who understands the answers. The more you know, the better your chances of preventing an accident.