Alcohol Abuse Advice

Pros and Cons of Alcohol Service in a Limousine

Allowing the consumption of alcohol in a limousine is a controversial topic. Limousine business executives must weigh the pros and cons to allowing alcohol in their vehicles to determine the decision that best benefits the company, and complies with state and local laws.

Passengers in limos have historically been portrayed as wealthy individuals in the movies. The big screen paints a classy picture of limo passengers dressed to the nines and drinking wine or champagne.

The reality of alcohol in a limousine is quite different. Legal issues arise that each company must take into consideration. The company’s name and reputation are at stake with every passenger they transport. The decision to allow drinking, if legal where the business is licensed, is ultimately at the discretion of the company management.

Increased Client Base

People who rent a limousine are looking for something different and exciting. When people rent a vehicle this special, it often represents an especially memorable occasion. People often mark special occasions with wine or champagne.

Is the potential increase in business worth the potential problems? Alcoholic beverages lower inhibitions and cause some people to do things they wouldn’t normally do. The company could get a bad reputation because of the inappropriate conduct of inebriated clients.

Spills are only the beginning of potential problems caused by alcohol consumption. Lowered inhibitions could cause passengers to instigate fights which cause damage to the vehicle. Alcohol consumption by passengers may increase insurance costs. Determine if those additional costs are worth the increase in customers and potential problems.

Proms, other dances and graduations are very popular occasions for limousine rental companies. Alcohol is not permitted for people under a specific age in most areas of the United States. Under-age alcohol consumption could become an issue if drinking is permitted in the limo.

Sightseeing and Local Attractions

Sightseeing tours, extra-special shopping trips with the girls or sporting events for the guys are all great reasons when alcohol might be expected to be permitted. Refreshments will keep the client in the car longer and give them a reason to tell their friends about their experience.

Visitors from out of town often enjoy seeing the sights and tasting the tastes the local area has to offer. Provide wines, beer or other beverages that are produced locally to increase the customer’s adoration for the area.

Alcohol is OK in a Limousine but Not as a Passenger in a Vehicle?

Commonly, in the United States, it is legal to drink alcohol in a limo or any other vehicle that transports people for compensation. Vehicles used for every-day use are not considered to be in the same class as those that charge a fee for transportation.

The law in most states says that a passenger of legal drinking age renting the services of a bus, taxicab or limousine may consume alcoholic beverages. The driver of a publicly accessible vehicle is not permitted to consume alcohol while working or driving the vehicle. Local bylaws must also be adhered to where alcoholic beverages are concerned.