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Hiring a limousine for prom night is a popular tradition, but the Michigan Department of Transportation is warning parents to be sure limo companies are licensed before signing a contract.
(File photo)
LANSING -- A limousine ride is often one of the highlights of prom night, and the Michigan Department of Transportation wants parents to be sure the car taking their children to the party is safe.
Transportation officials produced a 3-minute YouTube video starring students from St. Johns High School highlighting what parents and students should know when renting a limousine.
A recent study from credit card company Visa found that the average family will spend $978 on prom this year, down from more than $1,100 in 2013.
Limousine rental can be a big part of that expense, but transportation officials recommend not letting the price be the deciding factor when hiring a car. Instead, transportation officials have a "consumer checklist" for parents to look at when renting a limousine.
Here's what parents should check into before signing a rental contract:
- Don't settle for the cheapest price.
- Get references.
- Check with the state.
- Look for required documentation.
More information on limousine rental is also available by contacting the Michigan Department of Transportation's Office of Passenger Transportation by phone at 517-241-0679 or 517-241-0680.
Brian Smith is the statewide education and courts reporter for MLive. Email him at bsmith11@mlive.com or follow him on Twitter or Facebook.