TLC ISSUES REMINDER TO LICENSEES: ADAM’S LAW GOVERNING SEAT BELTS IN TAXICABS, LIVERIES AND BLACK CARS TO BECOME EFFECTIVE

The New York State Legislature recently passed, and Governor Pataki has signed into law amendments to the Vehicle and Traffic Law affecting the taxicab industry. Commonly referred to as "Adam's Law", this bill requires that each taxicab and livery vehicle have a notice posted in a conspicuous place within the vehicle which states: "Seatbelts must be available for your use. Please buckle up." The Law also requires that each seatbelt in a taxicab or livery be clearly visible, accessible and maintained in good working order.

The Administrative Code already requires that each vehicle licensed by the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) be equipped with visible and operational seatbelts for passengers. Each medallion taxicab that has a current passenger information sticker in the rear of the vehicle, as required by TLC rules, is in compliance with the notice requirements. However, the owners of vehicles licensed by the TLC as livery black car vehicles must post the required notice which states that seat belts must be available. Failure to comply with this requirement is a violation of the Vehicle and Traffic Law. This law does not apply to luxury limousines, paratransit vehicles or commuter vans.

The complete text of the new State Law may be viewed on the New York State Assembly web site here or here.