Why Do Commercial Passenger Vehicles Rarely Crash?

StickyJanuary 4, 2022VIP CONNECTIONBlog

Have you ever wondered why so many car or bike crashes every year, while commercial passenger vehicles like buses do not so much? These are seen primarily in movies but seldom in real life. And when it happens, it makes headlines. Ever thought why? It’s because it happens so rarely. So, what makes commercial passenger vehicles so safe?

  1. Highly Trained Drivers

Drivers of commercial passenger vehicles are highly trained, who hold commercial driver’s licenses. These are extremely hard to obtain. A person has to undergo strict training and an even more rigorous on-road testing process. Post-training, the driver must pass a stringent driving test to get authorized with ‘Passenger Endorsement’ that proves the driver is ready to commit to driving duty with the care necessary to keep passengers safe while driving.

  1. Multiple Rounds of Inspection

Every commercial passenger vehicle such as bus, shuttle van, and limousine is inspected thoroughly before every trip. Engine condition, tires, undercarriages, indicators, brake, accelerator, headlights, etc., are checked meticulously before the trips. Safe trip helps in ensuring high client retention and new bookings. It provides less likelihood of mechanical failure and reduces the chances of collision.

  1. Regular Maintenance

Every transportation company that operates commercial passenger vehicles regularly services them. They are legally bound to ensure the prime running condition of each vehicle to keep their commercial license. Therefore, customers can rest assured that every vehicle they book is in prim-and-proper condition both mechanically and aesthetically – interior and exterior.

  1. Anticipate Wide Turns

Big commercial vehicles like buses need extra turning room. Therefore, drivers of such vehicles are advised to start turning from the middle lane or swing wide. They must never try to squeeze by or get between an already turning vehicle and the curb.

  1. Driving Technique

Lastly, driving technique. Drivers of commercial passenger vehicles are required to ensure the highest level of carefulness to guarantee the safety of the passengers. They never tailgate. While changing lanes or making U-turns, they look left-right-left-right:

  1. Drivers look at the vehicle’s left side as that’s the lane they will be pulling into.
  2. They look right to check the curb line that no pedestrians are walking into their path or bicyclists are riding in the wrong direction.
  3. Another quick look to the left and again right to check the road surface is smooth, and there are no ditches or potholes.

Professional drivers also never back up. They follow the ‘First Move Forward’ system while driving and parking the vehicles. They always park their vehicles in a way that doesn’t require them to back up and thus avoid collisions. Professional commercial passenger vehicle drivers are advised never to speed, never to tailgate, and never to press the brake unnecessarily.

6. Never Drive with Fatigue or Under Influence

This is the first rule of driving. While going on a long trip, drivers take regular intervals to stretch and freshen up. Often for longer trips, they get a backup driver to relieve them. During driving, alcohol and drug consumption impair the drivers’ judgment and reflex time. Therefore, professional drivers never drive under the influence.

These driving tips are golden not only for commercial drivers; they can be followed by anyone who can drive. So, next time you take your car out, make sure to follow these driving tips and tricks.

The Science Behind Your Airport Car Pick-up

StickyDecember 17, 2021VIP CONNECTIONBlog

In most places, airports are situated outside the city limits, making traveling to and from the airport stressful for everyone.

Let’s face it, hiring a rental car is way more hassle-prone and expensive than an airport car service – the expense of renting the car, fuel, insurance, parking fees, hassle, and time wasted in pick-up and drop-off – the list is endless.

It is especially true for those who are corporate flyers because they use airports frequently. That is where airport car services come into the picture with the promise of convenience and stress-free travel.

Airport car service has many names – limousine services, chauffeured ground transportation, and charter services, etc. Despite the difference in name, it’s all about practicality – for business travelers and leisure flyers alike. Let’s understand what sets it apart from other modes of airport transportation and what goes on behind the scenes.

Imagine you have just landed from a flight and are waiting to collect your baggage near the conveyor belt when you notice a well-suited man collecting his bag on priority and being greeted by another professional holding a board with his name on it. He is then being whisked away to a waiting car and in less than a minute, he is gone!

Here’s what happened: the said person has made a reservation at an airport car pick-up service with his flight details and arrival time. The transportation company then contacts the particular airlines to vet the passenger and confirm the details. Upon receiving confirmation from the airline, the reservation gets confirmed.

On the day of the journey, the flight is tracked. Car service company gets alerted about any changes in your flight status. In case of flight delay or cancellation, the car service company gets notified before you. Therefore, you can travel at peace.

45 minutes before the arrival of your flight, a greeter reaches the airport and confirms the assigned baggage claim area to ensure that he/she is waiting at the right spot to greet you. Your chauffeur also reaches the airport at the right time and waits for you at the closest entry gate. As soon as you come outside, you are greeted by your greeter, who will take you toward your waiting car and assist you with your baggage. There’s no need for you to wait for your car or go in search of it and waste your valuable time. Everything is done seamlessly.

At VIP Connection, we do all these and beyond. We aim to provide you world-class transportation experience. All along your entire journey, we keep you updated, reminding you of your reservation, your arrival at the destination airport, the name of your chauffeur, assigned vehicle, and specific meeting instructions via text messages. That is called true convenience.

Next time you plan airport transportation, VIP Connection is your trusted partner.

5 Things You Must Consider While Planning A Business Trip

StickyDecember 1, 2021VIP CONNECTIONAirports, Blog

We are living in a digital world, where most communication happens over the screen of your computer. But sometimes physical presence and old-school face-to-face interaction work better, especially when you have an angry client or a big meeting with a potential client. Corporate travel is important. It needs proper planning so that on the big day, you are prepared and focused on what matters the most.

Business travel requires attention to small details such as appropriate attire, ground transportation, hotel selections based on your meeting locations, as well as making advance dinner reservations for important client dinners. With the proper planning, you can even squeeze in a bit of sightseeing too. Here is an easy guide for you to consider when you are planning for a successful business trip.

  1. Arrange Transportation

First and foremost, wherever you are going for a business trip, always arrange your mode of transportation well in advance. At the last minute finding proper transportation can cause a lot of stress. Depending on your destination, you can either choose to travel by air or by ground. Let’s take a quick look at both:

✔ Air Transportation

Whenever you are booking your flight, here’re a few things for you to consider

  • How much is the travel time?
  • How much the flight will cost you?
  • Does the airline have a loyalty program?
  • Can you reimburse your Air miles to book a round-trip ticket?
  • Does the flight have wifi in case you need to get some last-minute work done?
  • Does the airline provide meals?
  • Which class are you going to fly: Coach, Business, or First class?

Based on the information, you can book your flight on the same day of your meeting or a day early.

✔Ground Transportation

Ground transportation is extremely important in any kind of trip. Having a trusted car to navigate to-and-from the airport, your hotel, and your meeting venue is a life-saver. Therefore, it is highly essential to arrange a car well in advance. Always prefer professional car rental. You do not want to get stuck in traffic and reach your meeting late. A chauffeur from a reliable rental car agency always picks you up ahead of time, knows alternate routes to your destination, and saves you time to relax and enjoy your journey. Book your rental car in advance to choose your favorite car model and get special early booking discounts.

  • Pro Tip: Rely on professional car rental agencies like VIP connection for your ground transportation. The major advantage of booking your car from VIP connection is it operates in Tri-State area. So, wherever you go, you know your travel is sorted with VIP connection’s fleet of luxury cars. Call 212-571-7770  to book limousines, luxury sedans, SUVs, and even full-size buses.
  1. Book Accommodation

Choosing the best accommodation that is closest to your meeting venue is extremely important. You do not want to travel across the city on a busy weekday to reach your meeting. It is also essential to check how far the hotel is from the airport if you have to return by flight.

Find out some good restaurants located in and around your hotel if you have to go for a business lunch or dinner with your clients. Save money by choosing hotels that offer a free breakfast. If you are a member of any hotel rewards program, always prefer to stay with them so that you can use your reward point to get a free stay.

  1. Prepare Travel Documents

If you are traveling to a foreign country for your business trip, always apply for a visa well in advance. Embassies take 2-7 days to grant visas. Ensure your passports are up-to-date, your immigration forms are duly filled, and your tickets are in order. And if you are traveling within your country, make sure to keep your booking details handy, and don’t forget your photo ID and driving license.

  1. Remember Your Electronics

Before your travel, don’t forget your electronic items such as chargers, laptop or tablet, AV equipment if your meeting needs such items. Remember, being prepared is key. It will save you a lot of time and money in the long run.

  1. Sightseeing

If you have some time after your meeting, take some time off to relax. One of the greatest cities in the world, New York is always a whirlwind of activity, with famous sites at every turn and never enough time to see them all. If nothing else, be sure to explore NYC area restaurant, after all NYC is one of the top foodie destinations in the United States. Book your car from sightseeing from VIP connection.

Why to Plan Ahead This Holiday Season!

StickyOctober 7, 2021VIP CONNECTIONAirports, Blog

If you are planning to travel this holiday season, make sure to plan. The limo and transportation industry is experiencing driver shortages, just like the trucking industry, and we want to help ensure you and your clients are taken care of.

Why you should plan.

  1. You can secure the vehicle you want!
  2. Planning will save you money $$
  3. Plan the trip, ride, the experience you want!
  4. Peace of mind! Your trip is confirmed and secure. Check it off the to-do list.

You will save time and money by planning and will be able to enjoy yourself, knowing this task is checked off. Reserve your transportation ahead of time and take some of the stress out of traveling. Plan the trip, ride, the experience you want. Call us at 718-852-7777 or email us at reservations@vipgts.com and one of our customer service representatives will be happy to help you.  We are open 24/7!

More articles we think you will find helpful as you make your future travel plans. 

  • Football!!!! Ride with us to a game in comfort and style! Giants Schedule and Jets Schedule. 
  • What new CDC mask guidelines mean for travelers – Click Here
  • Passport renewal could take up to 12 – 18 weeks – Here is a list of places you can visit without a passport. 
  • Worried about traveling with unvaccinated kids? Click Here
  • Which airline(s) do you fly? Click here for a list of the best airlines in 2021
  • Arriving or Departing out of JFK Terminal 4? Here is everything you need to know!
  • NYC airport travel do’s and don’ts – guidelines.
  • The trouble ahead for business travelers. Click Here
January 14, 2022VIP CONNECTIONBlog
Airport Security

We have all been there – stuck in a slow-moving queue at airport security for over an hour. It has caused thousands of people even to miss their flights!

You can’t help if the TSA screens passengers at a snail’s pace. But what you can do is be prepared and take the necessary steps possible to make the screening process as fast as possible from your end.

Here’s how you can do it.

 

1.   Pack Strategically

If you are traveling by flight, packing is an art you must master.

Your boarding pass, IDs, passports are some things that get checked frequently at the airport. So, remember to keep them in the outer compartment of your bag so that they are easily accessible.

Electronic items like mobiles, laptops, tablets, chargers and other devices go through security checks. So, carry them in luggage that makes it easy for you to pack and unpack them quickly. Also, be sure to carry all your electronics in your carry on, not in your check-in baggage.

This way, you will not be that frazzled, discombobulated traveler who is woefully unprepared for airport security check and feel the wrath of frustrated passengers behind you.

 

2.   Get Global Entry

You might have heard of TSA PreCheck. It’s a lifesaver for someone who air travels frequently. It allows flyers departing from the USA to go through a security check-in in under 5 minutes without having to remove their shoes, laptops, belts, and light coats.

You can pre- enroll and make an appointment online or walk-in at an enrollment center. To apply for TSA PreCheck®, travelers must go in-person to an enrollment center to provide documentation and fingerprints

But here’s a secret. If you also travel abroad, get a Global Entry pass for $100. It not only includes the perks of TSA PreCheck, but you will also be able to enter the USA through the automatic kiosks that scan your passport and fingerprint instead of standing in long customs lines.

You can get Global Entry for free with certain American Express credit cards.

 

3.   Become An Elite Flyer

Frequent travelers know the benefits that accrue with their loyalty on one airline. Free upgrades. Priority check-in and TSA lines. Dedicated phone lines.

Try to stick to one or two airlines specifically if you travel frequently. Although not initially, soon, you’ll get to reap the benefits of being a loyal customer. A case in point, become an elite flyer.

The airlines will offer you loyalty rewards like special discounts, free upgrades, and other perks. Most airlines have a special security lane for their elite flyers, which is always less crowded.

 

4.   Arrive Early

Airports are almost always overcrowded. So long queues at security checks are natural.

Furthermore, chances of getting caught in traffic are also high. It is especially true if you are traveling from busy airports like JFK or Newark.

You can avoid unnecessary stress by arriving at the airport early. Be sure to arrive at least 3 hours before your boarding time.

Rely on chauffeured airport car services from professional car rental companies like VIP Connection. We provide on time car service. Our chauffeurs are trained and aware of shortcut routes to all NYC airports. So you can rest assured you will reach your destination safely. Not only that, we have an extensive fleet of luxury cars that will ensure you travel in style.

Borders Are Open & NYC Is Back This Holiday Season!

November 24, 2021VIP CONNECTIONAirports, Blog
This holiday season, we expect to see a considerable acceleration in the travel industry, with U.S. borders open to international travel and New York City reclaiming the top tourism spot in the U.S. The best thing you can do to ensure you and your family enjoy your holiday trips is to plan! We’ve all heard about the nightmares recently with flight cancellations, rental cars, and driver shortages. Give yourself enough time to get to the airport, and schedule your airport pick-up ahead of time. Once you arrive at your destination – our chauffeur will load your luggage into the car, and you can start your vacation.

Why you should plan.

  1. Peace of mind! Your trip is confirmed, and you can check it off the to-do list.
  2. You’re able to secure the vehicle you want!
  3. Planning saves you money $$
  4. Receive the trip, ride, or experience you want!
Secure the trip, ride, or experience you want. You deserve to enjoy yourself this holiday season, knowing this task is checked off. Reserve your transportation ahead of time and take some of the stress out of traveling. Call us at 718-852-7777 or email us at reservations@vipgts.com and one of our customer service representatives will be happy to help you.  We are open 24/7!

More articles we think you will find helpful as you make your future travel plans. 

  • It’s the small things that make flying again enjoyable! Click Here
  • WhyHotel expands to NYC. Click Here
  • Basketball is Back! Let us drive you to the game, while you have a good time! Knicks Schedule and the Nets Schedule. 
  • Unvaccinated Americans to face tighter COVID testing requirements in new US travel system. Click Here for the full article.
  • Football!!!! Ride with us to a game in comfort and style! Giants Schedule and Jets Schedule. 
  • Passport renewal could take up to 12 – 18 weeks – Here is a list of places you can visit without a passport. 
  • Worried about traveling with unvaccinated kids? Click Here
  • Which airline(s) do you fly? Click here for a list of the best airlines in 2021
  • Arriving or Departing out of JFK Terminal 4? Here is everything you need to know!
  • NYC airport travel do’s and don’ts – guidelines.
  • The trouble ahead for business travelers. Click Here
Book Your Ride Today !

The Truth Behind Uber & Lyft: Here’s Why You Should Opt VIP Connection Instead

November 8, 2021VIP CONNECTIONAirports, Blog

How many times have you traveled somewhere by Uber or Lyft?

How many times have you come across a situation where the app shows you the wait time is almost an hour or the surge price is through the roof?

In such situations, you must have taken refuge in your local taxis to save the cost or time, right? Here’s the thing, there’s no guarantee that the cab will be clean or you will be safe with the unknown cab driver.

But, have you ever thought of looking for an alternative that’s safe, hygienic, and comes with an on-time arrival guarantee? VIP Connection is an experienced luxury transportation company in the New York Area. But what makes us different from Uber or Lyft?

Aside from the competitively affordable price and on-request always-on-time service, there are numerous things that make VIP Connection vastly different from a Transportation Network Company (TNC) like Uber and Lyft. The most significant among them is the lack of professional training of independent drivers who drive Uber or Lyft. They often do not come with the same level of chauffeur training, client servicing, and overall safety, and the high standards of excellence as our expert drivers.

The following are a couple of Pros and Cons of using a TNC rideshare:

Advantages:

🗸They are convenient and easily available to go anywhere at any given time

🗸 Competitive price

🗸 Easy to order ride via app/phone call

Disadvantages:

⤫ TNC drivers are required to get separate insurance since their vehicle insurance doesn’t cover if mishaps happen while working with a TNC. But, how to ensure your cab driver has one such insurance?

⤫ No drug or liquor testing is mandated to become Uber/Lyft driver

⤫ No authority monitors the vehicles while on duty on GPS live

⤫ No live personnel to go to if any issue arises to get immediate resolution

⤫ No criminal history verification done with fingerprints

⤫ Excessive cases of kidnapping, assault, and attack on travelers by TNC drivers have been reported

⤫ No formal safety training program for drivers

⤫ Excessive/unpredictable stand by times

⤫ Often drivers don’t even show up or cancel abruptly

⤫ Not regulated in every state

Whereas TNC drivers work independently, according to their needs and convenience. The trips done by Uber or Lyft drivers are not closely monitored as well, which is why they lack the enthusiasm and pressure to improve their performance. Safety and on-road assistance are also not guaranteed.

VIP Connection comes into the picture with the assurance of safety, cleanliness, utmost high-quality chauffeur service, and always on-time guarantee. We ensure stress-free travel and safety. Our services are closely monitored by the New York Public Utilities Commission, the New York Highway Patrol, and the Department of Motor Vehicles. Therefore, we abide by all the safety requirements and service standards. So, various transportation services provided by us, at VIP Connection Transportation, are of a much higher standard than that of a Lyft or Uber.

Furthermore, your trip is insured every time you avail of our services. But, if in case the insurance company refuses to cover the cost, one of our representatives personally follows up with the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) on the same day. Otherwise, the authority has the right to suspend our ‘Authority to Operate’ license. Therefore, you can rest assured that your journey will be smooth, comfortable, hassle-free, and memorable.

VIP Connection is dedicated to demonstrating the highest degree of professionalism that you can rely on. Our long list of happy customers proves that you receive only the safest, most comfortable, and efficient chauffeur services in the world. We are present in the tri-state area. So, next time you are traveling give VIP Connection a ring at (212) 571-7770 or book here.

Limo Rental Price in New York City

September 20, 2021VIP CONNECTIONAirports, Blog

Let’s get one thing straight first. A limousine or, in short, a limo is not just a car.

Are you like, eh what?!

We say, Yes! It’s more than just a car that can capacitate from 6 to 12 people, it’s a lifestyle. Yes! For many, ‘swag’ often falls or increases based on whether or not you’d arrived somewhere in a limo. Isn’t that right?

But limos are expensive cars and not all of us are millionaires or billionaires to afford this. So, the next best option? Rental. Yes, hiring a fully stocked limo, to be driven by your own chauffeur is a dream. Whether you are renting one for your wedding or going to prom or frat formal parties, a night out, or a business formal event, nothing screams luxury better than a limo. And in New York City, there are hundreds of limo rental services available over the years. You might be wondering what is the point of reading a blog about limo rentals now? Let us remind you this is 2021 when the world has collapsed due to Coronavirus Pandemic. Not just healthwise, the collapse includes the economy too. Keep reading to know about Limo Rental Price in New York City in 2021 During Pandemic.

Why You Should Opt For Limo Rentals Now More Than Ever

To Maintain Social Distancing

Whether you are traveling from one city to another or going for a night out with your girls or guys or to your wedding, being safe from the deadly coronavirus is everyone’s utmost priority, isn’t it? So maintaining social distancing is a must. So what can be the better way to remain socially distant, staying safe, and enjoy a luxury ride than hiring a limo.

 Sanitized Ride Every Time

Like other private car hiring service providers, limo rental companies first and foremost priority in this pandemic is maintaining the highest customer safety. That’s why most companies ensure their fleet is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before and after every ride. So that you can travel without any tension. In many cases, companies charge extra for sanitizing in front of your eyes.

Now let’s get into the cost part.

Limo Rental Cost

Car TypeNo. of PassengerCost Per Hour (Excluding Tip)
Luxury SedanUp to 4$65-$90 (2-3 hours minimum)
Small LimousineUp to 7$71-$140 (2-3 hours minimum)
Mid-Size LimousineUp to 12$90-$130 (2-3 hours minimum)
Large Escalade LimousineUp to 20  $200-$350 (3-4 hours minimum)  
Vintage Roll RoyceUp to 4  $590-$800 (2-3 hours minimum)

You must have gotten a comparative idea of how much hiring a limo might hurt your pocket, especially if you’re a student. Now, there are many packages available too. For instance, prom night packages, wedding packages, airport transfers, sight-seeing packages, bachelorette parties, business travel, and many more. Let’s explore.

Limo Rental for Prom in NYC

Prom night is the most important night for every teenager. They want a spectacular ride. Parents too want their teenagers to have a safe prom night they’ll remember all their lives. For once, they can both have what they want. They get the celebrity treatment—a chauffeur in a suit, drinks (soft & hard), music—and an unforgettable evening in a stretch limo with friends. Packages range from as low as $65 to up to $190 per hour. The package must be booked for 2-3 hours minimum.

Limo Rental for Wedding in NYC

Treat your bride to a luxury ride while you go off on your honeymoon straight from your ceremony. Most limo rental companies offer utmost professionalism and work well with your wedding planner to arrange transportation so that you can focus on the biggest day of your life. In addition to that, expert drivers ensure you don’t reach your wedding late! Most couples spend from $500-$1000 on their wedding chariot (in this case, limo). Depending on your wedding party, the cost can go up to $1300 including taxes, fuel, service charges, etc. There are few things you must check before booking a wedding limo:

  • Ask your limo service what kind of all-inclusive wedding packages they offer.
  • Whether the tip for your chauffeur is included in the price or not.
  • To get the best price during this pandemic, book 3-4 months in advance.

Airport Limo Service in NYC

For a reliable and stress-free airport transfer from your doorstep to JFK International Airport, Laguardia Airport, and Newark Airport, hire a limo. Many companies also provide curbside pickup, meet & greet service, and round trip service. It can cost you as low as $74 up to $982 for a 56 pax luxury bus with your luggage taken care of.

Different Limo Rental Cost in Day and Night in NYC

Yes, there is a major difference in price based on when you are booking your limo – day or night, weekend or weekday.

Day Booking

With a minimum rental time of 3-4 hours, the cost to rent a limo for a day on weekdays ranges from $250 for a small 8-passenger limo, up to $500 for a 16-passenger large limo until 5 PM. To rent a stretch limo that can hold 20 for a whole day (Until 5 PM), expect to spend between $500 and $1,250 on weekdays.

Night Booking

Renting a limo in the evening hours can cost you up to $280 for an 8-seater car, and $950-$1400 for a 20-seater car for 4-5 hours on weekdays. During the weekends (Saturday-Sunday) expect surge pricing. Companies may increase their minimum hours per booking to 5 due to higher demand.

Commonly Asked Questions

  • How much should I tip the chauffeur?

There’s no definite amount of how much you should tip your chauffeur. But as custom goes, people tip 5%-10% of your total bill. For airport transfers, it is customary to pay $2-$5 per bag.

What most people don’t understand is that limousine drivers receive fixed hourly rates as salaries that may not be much higher than minimum wage in most places. In some states, companies expect limo drivers to make money in tips, so they pay even below minimum wage. So, next time you ride a limo, remember to tip the chauffeur well.

  • Does the limo provide a fully stocked bar?

It depends on the service you’re opting for. Check with your limo rental company for more details. If you have any special requests expect to pay more.

  • What extra charges I might have to pay while renting a limo?

Whenever you’re booking a limo, make sure to ask the company a few questions about the extra charges that might show up on your bill. For instance:

  • Parking Fees
  • STC (9%)
  • Toll charges
  • Sales tax (8.875% and above)
  • Port authority
  • Cleaning charges ($100 or above)
  • Extra hour charges
Lost Luggage

What To Do In The Case Of Lost Luggage

August 9, 2021VIP CONNECTIONAirports, Blog

Having lost luggage can be a frustrating, stressful, and inconvenient situation. The lingering thought alone can be a painful experience. Airlines usually return luggage to passengers within the time span of 24 to 48 hours. Instead of procrastinating, it is best to take action right away in situations such as this.

  1. REACH OUT TO YOUR AIRLINE

 You should never wait to contact your airline once you realize that your luggage did not arrive. If your airport possesses an office for lost baggage, make sure to report your loss immediately. Leaving the airport in a state of panic is a bad idea if you have yet to speak to an airline agent. If this is not an option- report your loss to a baggage handler, reservations agent, or gate agent. Take note of each individual you speak with and write down instructions given by airline agents. If there is no agent available, contact the airport’s main phone line. If forms are available, complete them during your stay at the airport. Stay alert for any updates on lost luggage and check for lost luggage policies on your airline’s website. 

2. REQUEST LUGGAGE DELIVERY 

   It is important to leave your contact information with an airline agent so that your airline is able to contact you in the case of updates. It is convenient, and common, for airlines to offer to have your luggage delivered to you by hand. If this is not offered to you, it is important that it is requested so you will not have to return to the airport to claim your luggage.

3. FILE A CLAIM

 Most airlines will offer compensation when a claim is filed if your luggage has not arrived within 24 hours from when you have reported it missing. You will be asked to fill out the value of your lost baggage and any incidental expenses caused by the loss. (Toiletries, cell phone chargers, hair gel, etc.) For each ticketed passenger you can be compensated up to $3,500 for lost, delayed, and damaged luggage for domestic flights. Be sure to have an approximate dollar value and a list of all items that were in your luggage before the loss. The value of the suitcase itself is going to take part in the claim. Taking a picture of all of the goods and the suitcase before they are packed is a good idea so that the airline can use this information to determine your compensation for any damaged or lost items. 

5. MAKE SURE TO ANY RECEIPTS OF INCIDENTALS

 In most cases, for reasonable incidental expenses, your airline will reimburse you up to $50 per day for up to five days. Buying things that you would normally buy to replace lost items will make it more likely that your compensation claim is approved quickly. Receipts will be needed to be provided in order for each incidental purchase to be compensated. 

6. CHECK FOR CREDIT CARD BENEFITS

  Lost or delayed baggage benefits may be offered by the credit card used to book your flight and might be activated sooner than your airline’s benefits. An example of this is the American Express cards which, in some cases, can cover your expenses immediately. With Amex, you will need to submit the receipts for what you bought with your Amex card in order to replace everything you need. These charges will be removed from your monthly statement. In order to better understand the notification deadlines, read your credit card’s guide to benefits. Make sure to also have a Proof of Loss Statement from your airline to provide for your credit card company.

7. CONSIDER GETTING HOMEOWNER’S AND TRAVEL INSURANCE 

  You might still be able to receive compensation if you have purchased a travel insurance policy for your trip even if your credit cards don’t offer baggage insurance. Make sure to reach out to your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance to see if they will cover lost or delayed luggage. Coverage from travel or homeowner’s insurance will always be considered as secondary coverage rather than primary.

8. INSPECT YOUR LUGGAGE

  Immediately inspect your baggage for damage when you receive it. It is a good idea to do so in front of the person who has delivered the luggage to you. In most cases, airlines will offer to repair or replace damaged luggage if it is requested within 24 hours of receiving the luggage. In the case of damage, a claim form will need to be submitted for a replacement or repair. Some airlines require the original proof of the purchase receipt for the damaged items. To be safe, take photos of any damaged luggage to support your claim. 

9. ITEMS THAT ARE MISSING OR DAMAGED 

 Be sure to check for missing items as well. If you happen to be missing any items, contact your airport to see if they are in possession of any items that may have been separated from your luggage. If they are not holding the missing item(s), you could receive compensation or an insurance policy for any damaged or missing items.

By following each of these steps, you can easily make sure that your lost luggage is returned to you safely in no time!

nyc limo rental

Tips To Help Ensure A Safe Ride In A Limo Rental

July 19, 2021VIP CONNECTIONAirports, Blog

People rent a limo to celebrate the most special occasions in their lives, including weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and proms. These spacious vehicles have the most luxurious appeal and are ideal for accommodating a large group. An NYC Limo rental has premium amenities like a high-quality stereo with surround sound system, mini-fridge, television, bar, special lighting, comfortable leather seating, retractable roof, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi internet access for a one-of-a-kind experience.

With such a grand and inviting vehicle at their disposal, it is not unlikely for people to forget about the various safety considerations. When someone rents a NYC limo rental, they primarily focus on its cost, space, comfort, amenities, and vehicle appearance. Though extremely rare, limousines are vulnerable to catastrophic accidents, like other vehicles, which can spoil the occasion, turning it into a nightmare. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the limo you hire is safe, reliable, comfortable, and in the best condition to make any event memorable.  

Here we list a few tips that you should keep in mind to ensure a safer journey and an unforgettable and enjoyable experience in a NYC limo rental:

Do Thorough Research

Hiring a limo from an experienced limo rental company with an impeccable track record in providing excellent customer service may ease your worries a bit. Therefore, it is essential to do proper research before choosing a limo company to avoid hassles. Check online reviews on credible sites to ensure that the company you are willing to choose is legitimate and reliable and follow the State mandated safety guidelines to offer safe rides to the customers.

See The Vehicle Before Renting

It is one of the most common mistakes people make while renting a limo. It is always advisable to see the vehicle that you wish to rent. Inspect the limo to check that everything is in working condition. Check the locks, tires, lights, interiors, air conditioning, windows, sunroof, and other things for peace of mind. Rent the limo only when you are sure that it is in excellent working condition.

Check The Chauffeur’s Credentials

The chauffeur will be the one driving you around for the whole trip and is responsible for your safety. Enquire from the limo rental company about the procedure and all the safety checks they perform before hiring their chauffeurs. Request to check the driving license, insurance, state certifications, and all the other required documents of the assigned chauffeur. He should speak and understand the local language and must have a flawless driving record. Clear all your concerns and apprehensions about the chauffeur beforehand with the limo company.

Don’t Forget To Wear A Seat Belt

No matter how experienced and skilled the chauffeur is or how uncommon limo accidents are, following the elementary safety measures like wearing a seatbelt throughout the ride is a must for a safe ride. Request the fellow passengers to do the same too when the limo is operational.

Be Careful Not To Distract The Chauffeur

People rent limos to celebrate the days that matter to them the most, and it is only normal to be excited and get carried away a bit. However, it can be risky to get in a conversation with the chauffeur or keep the noise levels inside so high that it gets disruptive, risking your safety. Let the chauffeur focus solely on the road while you enjoy the day with your family, friends, or partner.

Carefully Listen To The Emergency Safety Procedures

People, in their excitement, may make the mistake of ignoring the rules and emergency procedures narrated by the chauffeur. To ensure a safe ride, listen carefully to all the instructions. Ask about the location of the first aid kit, fire extinguisher, and other safety equipment that can come in handy during any unforeseen circumstance.

Always Trust Your Instincts

It is necessary to trust your gut feeling while renting a limo. If you feel that the vehicle or the chauffeur is unsatisfactory, don’t hesitate to replace them by having a word with the limo company. Be a vigilant customer and ensure all that you can to avoid ending up in an unsafe situation.

Follow the tips mentioned above to feel safe while riding around in a rented limo. Take quotes from multiple limo rental companies and choose the one that assures the safest possible ride.

Service: VIP Connection – Top Rated Limo Rental Company

About the author: This article is written by Ryan Curtis, founder of Central Illinois Limo Service.