Authorities are saying a limousine involved in a crash that killed 20 people in New York failed an inspection just one month before the accident. Law enforcement officials also said the driver of the limousine, Scott Lisinicchia, did not have the proper driver’s license to operate the vehicle. Lisinicchia was one of the 20 people who died in the devastating accident that occurred in early October.
According to Gov. Andrew Cuomo, the state of New York will be issuing a cease-and-desist order against Prestige Limousine, to stop the company from operating until authorities complete their investigation of the fatal accident.
Gov. Cuomo said, "The owner of the company, in my opinion, because of the legal consequences, had no business putting a failed vehicle on the road."
Prestige Limousine said it will be removing its vehicles from the road until the investigation concludes. The company also released the following statement about the deadly crash:
"Prestige Limousine extends its deepest condolences to the family members and friends of those who tragically lost their lives on Saturday. We are performing a detailed internal investigation to determine the cause of the accident and the steps we can take in order to prevent future accidents."
Department of Transportation records show that Prestige Limousine has had its vehicles inspected 5 times in the last 5 years. Four of its vehicles were taken out of service during this time, a rate that is four times the national average.
The accident is being reported as the deadliest transportation crash in the United States since August 2009.
Talking about the investigation, Robert Sumwalt, the chief of the National Transportation Safety Board, said, “At this point we're not sure if all seating positions were equipped with seatbelts."
Limousine Accidents
In the United States, no regulatory agency ensures the safety of limousines. This is because limousines are not manufactured by major car companies and are instead made by second-stage manufacturers that chop up normal cars and extend their length. The final product does not have to go through crash tests or safety checks. Because limousines tend to lack safety measures like side-impact air bags, reinforced rollover protection bars, and accessible emergency exits, the injuries sustained in accidents are often catastrophic. Additionally, the dangers of limousines are increased because these vehicles are not required to have backseat seatbelts. Even when limousines are equipped with seatbelts, most passengers don’t bother to use them.
Personal Injury Attorneys in Los Angeles
If you have been involved in a limousine accident, you should immediately consult with our attorneys to discuss your legal options. We can review the details of your case and help you obtain the compensation you deserve for your injuries and other accident damages. We are prepared to fight for you.
Call (310) 896-4345 to set up a free case evaluation with a Los Angeles personal injury lawyer.