May 1, 2018

MCI verdict raises concerns about liability standards LAS VEGAS — A jury found that no and we are not aware of any manufacturer vehicle defects were responsible for a bicy- that warns of this open and obvious fact. clist’s fatal sideswipe collision with a mo- MCI’s coaches have been used to safely torcoach before awarding his children $18.7 transport passengers in millions of miles of million in damages from Motor operation and will continue to do so. We Industries. look forward to pursuing the next steps in The jurors declined to accept four alle- the legal process to overturn the jury’s ver- gations of defects made by attorneys for the dict on the failure to warn of air.” family of Kayvan Khiabani, 51, who died Khiabani was the head of hand and mi- April 18, 2017. But they decided that MCI crosurgery at the University of Nevada-Re- “failed to provide an adequate warning” be- no School of Medicine and chief of hand fore the collision and awarded damages. surgery at University Medical Center. The case will be appealed and, so far, When the accident occurred, the Las should not establish a broad new legal liabil- Vegas Review-Journal reported: ity standard, according to industry experts. “He happened to be cycling parallel to a The Khiabani attorneys had told jurors Motor Coach Industries bus about 10:30 “that the aerodynamic design of the tour bus a.m. when Khiabani appeared to accidental- created a pulling force equivalent to 20 ly veer left, witnesses told police. The quick pounds near the right front portion of the ve- A jury decided that a 2008 MCI J4500 motorcoach (similar to this one) involved in a fatal move caused him to bump into the passen- hicle…MCI should have known their design accident with a bicyclist had no design defects, but it awarded the victim’s family $18.7 ger side of the bus, then dip into the path of posed a risk to a cyclist like Khiabani.” million in damages because MCI “failed to provide an adequate warning” before the collision. the vehicle. The 50-year-old driver of the Attorneys for the family and MCI en- tour bus stayed at the scene and did not show gaged in lengthy, detailed debates over the without an identified product defect. ly disagree, however, with the jury’s finding signs of impairment, police said. The coro- technological feasibility and commercial A statement released by MCI following that MCI should have warned of the air dis- ner ruled Khiabani’s death an accident availability of proximity warning devices the verdict said: turbance that is generated by any large com- Thursday.” when the 2008-model coach was manufac- “We are pleased by the jury’s verdict that mercial or industrial vehicle. Ryan’s Express of Phoenix operated the tured. They also argued whether a product MCI’s industry-leading J4500 model coach “Everyone has felt the air disturbance bus. manufacturer could be liable for injuries was not defective in any way. We respectful- when being passed by a large bus or truck, CONTINUED ON PAGE 13 c NPS considering scaling back proposed fee increases WASHINGTON — The Na- not making it more expensive,” fees to as much as $70 per private could increase park revenue by being proposed as the Trump ad- tional Park Service (NPS), ac- said Michael Rogers, president of vehicle weekly (now $25 at some $70 million per year, a 34-percent ministration’s budget for next year knowledging overwhelming oppo- the Northwest Motorcoach Asso- parks). It would have cost $50 to increase over the $200 million col- calls for cutting park spending by sition, is “reconsidering” its ciation and Beeline Charters and enter on motorcycle and $30 on lected from fees in fiscal 2016. $400 million. proposal to double or triple en- Tours in Seattle. bicycle or foot. Some comments complained that Many comments supported trance fees at 17 of the most popu- “While a 10-percent increase NPS estimated the new fees the higher entrance fees were CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 c lar federal parks to address $11.7 feels like a win, I’m still cautious- billion in needed repairs and ly optimistic until the tour bus rate improvements. proposal is released.” Administrators have yet to an- In February, NPS leaders said nounce a new plan but told report- they were awaiting analysis of ers that 10-percent fee increases 110,000 public comments submit- will be suggested. ted in response to its fee proposal. Motorcoach entrance fees While NPS had yet to reveal its would have been set at $900 to analysis of the comments, which $1,200 under the now-discredited were posted online, the National proposal. News reports have not Parks Conservation Association indicated what NPS will propose said it found that 98 percent of com- next for bus and motorcoach fees. ments were critical of the hikes. “That’s good news. Our gov- In addition to $900 to $1,200 ernment should be encouraging entrance payments for motor­ The National Park Service is expected to scale back its proposal to double or triple entrance fees at 17 of the most citizens to visit our national parks, coaches, NPS would have raised popular federal parks, including the Grand Canyon (pictured). Discover the beauty within The 2018 MCI J4500 Styled for instant passenger satisfaction with best-in-class legroom,

and built for long-term value, the MCI J4500 is available for immediate

PERMIT NO 1424 NO PERMIT delivery. Speak to your MCI representative today: 866-MCI-COACH.

PHOENIX AZ PHOENIX

US POSTAGE PAID POSTAGE US

PRESORT STD PRESORT May 1 May

or on or before deliver Please ostmaster: P

BMN Banner ad 040618.indd 1 4/7/18 12:43 AM Say ‘Yes’S E ToRVI CEMore OPTIO N S

ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION FLEET REPOWER MANAGEMENT SERVICE SERVICES CUSTOM DIGITAL GRAPHICS AND DESIGN

STANDARD AND CUSTOM PAINT STRATEGIC LOCATIONS 8NATIONWIDE CUSTOMER SPECIFIC MAINTENANCE PROGRAMS

COACH UPGRADE KITS FOR , MCI AND PREVOST

OVER 200 HIGHLY TRAINED SERVICE TECHNICIANS

www.abc-companies.com 844.287.3183 Bus & Motorcoach News INDUSTRY NEWS May 1, 2018 3 Greyhound rejects request to adopt sanctuary policy DALLAS — passengers to intimidating interro- a “reasonable suspicion” that they The letter was prompted by shoes looked “suspicious,” as if he has refused a request by the Amer- gations, suspicionless searches, were illegally in the country, accord- several incidents on Greyhound had just crossed the border. ican Civil Liberties Union that the warrantless arrests, and the threat ing to the San Francisco Chronicle. premises or buses in recent The ACLU said Greyhound company refuse to allow immigra- of deportation.” “We are aware that routine months, including at least two in and its passengers are protected tion agents to board its buses un- In response to the letter, Grey- transportation checks not only af- California. In January, Border Pa- under the Constitution’s Fourth less they have a judicial warrant hound said in a statement that it un- fect our operations, but our custom- trol agents boarded a Greyhound Amendment, which generally re- for a specific passenger. derstood the concerns of the ACLU ers’ travel experience, and we will bus in Indio and asked every pas- quires officers to obtain a warrant, U.S. Border Patrol agents have and bus passengers but said it “is continue to do everything legally senger for proof of citizenship, the based on probable cause of wrong- been boarding Greyhound buses required to comply with the law.” possible to minimize any negative ACLU said. doing, before seizing anyone. and questioning passengers in The company cited federal laws experiences,” the company said. In February, the ACLU said, “Greyhound has a Fourth their attempts to crack down on il- allowing immigration officers with- “Greyhound has opened a dia- agents boarded another Greyhound Amendment right to deny (the legal immigration. in 100 miles of the border to enter logue with the Border Patrol to see bus in Indio and seized a passenger Border Patrol) permission to board ACLU chapters in California and search any vehicle “to prevent if there is anything that can be as he was boarding. They questioned and search its buses without a judi- and nine other states sent a letter the illegal entry of aliens into the done to balance the enforcement of him and held him for possible de- cial warrant,” the ACLU said in its saying the company “should not be United States,” and to detain indi- federal law with the dignity and portation, explaining afterward that letter. “We urge Greyhound to in the business of subjecting its viduals, without a warrant, based on privacy of our valued customers.” they singled him out because his change its policy.” Prevost agrees to sponsor Bus Industry Safety Council SAINTE-CLAIRE, Quebec — regulatory compliance. its all-encompassing safety initia- ABA founded BISC in 1999 as “Not only do we have the backing Prevost has agreed to sponsor the As part of the Volvo Group, tive is to ensure no Volvo vehicle is a forum for bus and motorcoach and support of a truly quality com­ Bus Industry Safety Council (BISC) Prevost heralds its safety mission as ever involved in an accident. operators, safety directors, mainte- pany that shares our vision, BISC is in the interest of advancing overall a core value and guiding principle. “We have always put safety nance supervisors, OEMs, vendors now in a position to grow and devel- bus safety for all operators and bus Building on its legacy, the Volvo first, as do the members of BISC,” and government agencies to focus op from Prevost’s vast safety re- and motorcoach passengers. 9700 coach continues to set the said Michael Power, vice president on advancements in safe bus and search and resources,” Smith said. Under the umbrella of the highest safety standards possible. of marketing for Prevost and Nova motorcoach operations. ABA President Peter Pantuso American Bus Association, BISC Advanced systems for driver Bus. “It is in our DNA to plan and “Speaking for all BISC mem- expressed his appreciation for Pre- is a collective of safety-minded in- assistance, high-efficiency brakes, design vehicles that lead the indus- bers, we greatly appreciate this tre- vost’s sponsorship. “Prevost will not dividuals who embody every role seatbelts and world-class protec- try in safety and protection. Our mendous boost Prevost brings to only help BISC grow its member- of the bus and motorcoach indus- tive structures are standard Volvo hope for our sponsorship of BISC our efforts through its sponsor- ship and reach new heights, the try, addressing every safety con- safety features. is to help instill all bus and coach ship,” said BISC Chairman Alan company will further establish itself cern from shop safety and driver Manifested as Zero Accident operators with a similarly robust Smith, who is safety director at as one of the pre-eminent safety training to vehicle technology and Vision, Volvo’s definitive goal of safety philosophy.” Greyhound Lines. leaders in the motorcoach industry.”

Always performing. Always protecting.

Enjoy REI’s video surveillance performance and protection with our powerful HD5 Series DVR, VMS and HD cameras. Easily customize to fit your business needs. Quickly search and view video or access vehicle data. REI always outperforms. radioeng.com

Move in the right direction. Call today! 800.228.9275 4 May 1, 2018 Bus & Motorcoach News

New York State operators fend off new inspection fee ALBANY, N.Y. — Motor­ fended off a similar inspection fee Apparently it worked. BANY out New York charter bus opera- to contact their legislators one more coach operators in New York State in 2015, rallied its members to recently issued a bulletin alerting tors and forcing us to pay a $120 time to thank them for their support have once again successfully send letters to their state legisla- members that the fee had been re- inspection fee, per bus for the De- in defeating this tax and protecting fought off a proposed inspection/ tive representatives opposing the moved from the budget that was partment of Transportation’s our charter bus operators! re-inspection fee for motor vehi- proposed fee. passed by the state legislature. It 721-inspection program. “BANY thanks all of our mem- cles transporting passengers. “This language (TAX), if stated: “We have just received word bers for their active support and The proposed budget intro- passed, will put our industry at a “BANY members have been that due to our members’ extensive participation in this Association duced by Gov. Andrew Cuomo competitive disadvantage, not to relentless for the last eight weeks outreach efforts and the ongoing wide initiative!” called for a $120 fee for semi-an- mention cost our businesses more contacting their legislators via let- and effective efforts of our lobby- Under the proposal, the state nual inspections that currently money!” BANY said in its electron- ter writing campaigns and person- ists, Jerry Kremer and Anthony Fi- Department of Transportation don’t cost anything. ic newsletter to members. “In 2015, al phone calls to lobby against the gliola, the provision was removed would have been authorized to The Bus Association of New the proposed fee was $100. This provision in the Governor’s pro- from the governor’s budget! collect the $120 fee “for each York (BANY), which successfully year, the proposed fee is $120!” posed budget which was singling “We ask our BANY members CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 c Court rules New York can use toll revenue for canals NEW YORK CITY — A fed- ago arguing that bus tolls used to ny and Buffalo. The Thruway Au- held a lower court ruling that also “We conclude that Congress eral appeals court has dismissed a maintain the canal system are thority contributes more than $61 ultimately rejected ATA’s legal ar- evinced unmistakably clear intent class-action lawsuit challenging unconstitutional. million annually, or roughly 10 per- guments that the 570-mile cross- to authorize the Thruway Authority the New York State Thruway Au- The Thruway Authority argued cent of toll revenue, to maintain the state thruway should not allocate to allocate highway tolls to support thority’s use of highway tolls to that it was authorized to use truck canals, including the Erie Canal, excess highway toll revenues to the canal system,” the appeals court fund the state’s canal system. tolls to pay for canals by Congress. which was once crucial for trans- support recreational uses. said. “We also conclude that the The suit was filed in 2013 by The tolls in question are porting goods but is now obsolete The court described the canal District Court had discretion to the American Trucking Associa- charged on the Governor Thomas and mainly a tourist attraction. system as a “recreational byway, reach the question of congressional tions, and the American Bus Asso- E. Dewey Thruway system, which The decision by the Second drawing pleasure boats, fishing authorization.” ciation filed a similar suit a year runs between New York City, Alba- U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals up- lines, and the occasional canal fan.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 9 c IMG Partner of the Year! AFFINITY PARTNER

MOTORCOACH TIRE SALES IS PROUD TO ADD THE PIRELLI PENTATHLON COACH TIRE TO IT’S BRAND OFFERINGS!

MAX LOAD

SINGLE DUAL LBS/PSI LBS/PSI (KG/KPA) (KG/KPA)

9370/130 8820/130

(4250/900) (4000/900)

PERFORMANCE AND COMFORT MILE AFTER MILE LONG HAUL, REGIONAL, MOTOR COACH ALL POSITION The PIRELLI Logo and the trademarks products are trademarks owned by the Pirelli Group and used by Prometeon Tyre Group under license.

• AVAILABLE IN ALL OF US AND CANADA—NO RESTRICTIONS ON DELIVERY LOCATION (16 tire minimum per order)! • INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNIZED QUALITY—143 YEARS OF COMMERCIAL TIRE EXPERIENCE—THE MOST ADVANCED PIRELLI TECHNOLOGY LANDS IN THE US AND CANADA! • 100,000 MILEAGE MANUFACTURERS CONFIDENCE WARRANTY ON FIRST 50 COACH TIRES PER FLEET! (tag tires excluded, other restrictions and limitations apply, call for details) • TIRES INDIVIDUALLY BRANDED AT FACTORY FOR EASY TRACKING! • FEATURES INCLUDE: HIGHER LOAD RATING—DESIGNED TO BE ENERGY EFFICIENT FOR BETTER FUEL ECONOMY (SMARTWAY VERIFIED)—DUAL LAYER COMPOUNDING ENGINEERED FOR EXTENDED WEAR—DESIGNED AND TESTED FOR NOISE LEVEL REDUCTION—PROVIDES AN INCREDIBLY SMOOTH RIDE! • DIRECT SHIP MODEL UTILIZED BY MOTORCOACH TIRE SALES PROVIDES FOR UNMATCHED PRICING EFFICIENCY— CONTACT US FOR MORE DETAILS AND PRICING INFORMATION

For more information contact: Bill Kaiser direct at 678-463-4110 or [email protected]

896350_MotorCoach.indd 1 28/12/17 1:26 PM 6 May 1, 2018 THE DOCKET Bus & Motorcoach News Digital camera system could replace rear-vision mirrors WASHINGTON — Federal cessing software that presents a the U.S. regulators are considering a request high-definition image to the driver “We have been conducting by Stoneridge Inc. to allow com- by means of a monitor mounted to MirrorEye CMS fleet trials for the mercial motor vehicles to use the each A-pillar of the CMV — the past year as we prepare to launch company’s new MirrorEye Camera structural member between the in North America,” said Stephen Monitor System as an alternative to windshield and door. Fox, vice president, business devel- rear-vision mirrors. The company explained that at- opment, at Stoneridge. “After con- The Federal Motor Carrier taching the monitors to the A-pil- ducting very successful fleet trials Safety Administration announced lars avoids the creation of incre- with some of the top safety fleets in the Federal Register that it would mental blind spots while in North America, we are prepared accept public comments through eliminating the blind spots associ- to offer this advanced vision and May 7 on Stoneridge’s request that ated with conventional mirrors. safety solution to a greater number the MirrorEye be allowed to serve The MirrorEye system features of fleets for evaluation.” as a substitute for the two rear-vi- a 12.3-inch-high definition display Benefits such as blind spot re- The MirrorEye system features a 12.3-inch-high definition display on the sion mirrors, one on each side of on the driver’s left and a 15-inch duction, night vision, trailer pan- driver’s left and a 15-inch display on the right. In the middle top of the the vehicle, currently required by display on the right. In the middle ning, expanded fields of view and window is another display, giving the driver complete visibility from five to Federal Motor Carrier Safety top of the window is another dis- high definition camera and display six cameras mounted on the vehicle. Regulations. play, giving the driver complete technology have been very well re- with for-profit motor vehicle in- Stoneridge said the system visibility from five to six cameras ceived by fleet test drivers, Fox said. N.Y. fee spections in the same manner as meets National Highway Traffic mounted on the vehicle. “We understand that each fleet CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 Safety Administration standards, The displays show blind spots is unique, however, they all share other safety inspections.” which are cross-referenced by the as well as the entire length of the safety as a common goal,” he said. semi-annual­ inspection of The budget proposal said the FMCSRs, and “meets or exceeds trailer or bus in full color. The cam- “We recognize the importance of for-profit tour and charter bus fees would result in $3 million in the performance requirements for eras, which are heated for easy de- providing fleets with the opportu- fleets, ambulettes, and other large additional revenue to support the traditional mirrors.” frosting, are shielded from the nity to evaluate MirrorEye CMS. passenger vans/limousines.” bus inspection safety program. The company said the system weather to ensure a clear view. The benefits of the MirrorEye vi- “Although DOT collects fees “This was an outstanding effort consists of multiple digital cameras The system also features an ad- sion system when compared to tra- for some safety inspections includ- on behalf of all New York bus oper- mounted on the exterior of the vanced image handling system that ditional mirrors are tangible and ing commercial truck and rail in- ators and demonstrates the excep- CMV and enclosed in an aerody- adjusts visibility in direct sunlight the number of fleets expressing in- spections, DOT still provides in- tional value of belonging to the namic package that provides both so drivers are not blinded and can terest is rapidly increasing.” spections at no cost for these Bus Association of New York,” environmental protection for the continue to see clearly. The company said that while for-profit motor vehicles,” the pro- said Ken Presley, vice president cameras and a mounting location The MirrorEye system cur- North American fleets are current- posal stated. of legislative and regulatory affairs for optimal visibility. rently is being used in Europe and ly legally required to have physical “This bill would allow DOT to and industry relations/COO for the Each camera has video pro- the company has been testing it in CONTINUED ON PAGE 9 c recoup some of the costs associated United Motorcoach Association. FOR SALE Set of 31 Amaya seats out of a 2011 Van Hool C2045. All leather seats with aircraft style tray table on the back of each seat. 11 are doubles with cup holders in the middle of both seats. 9 are single with a single cup holder on the side. Does not include mounting nuts and bolts. $5,500 or Best Offer 2009 GMC Duramax Diesel Mini Coach Recent wood grain floors, recent paint, PA, DVD player and 2 point seat belts. 80,000 miles, low miles for the age. Original owner. 28 seats with no rear luggage. Built by Champion Bus. 2009 TD 925 Van Hool • Seats 81people • engine • ZF Transmission • Recent interior Call for Pricing Contact Jimmy Hall: [email protected] or 757-494-1480 The Gold Standard

4490 Business Center Way Las Vegas, Nevada 89118 Always close to you www.inabussales.com / www.irizar.com 8 May 1, 2018 THE DOCKET Bus & Motorcoach News Oregon’s exemption from permit requirement extended WASHINGTON — The Fed- days to a year from the date of is- through April 2019. gesting that persons who have not add unnecessary workload to offic- eral Motor Carrier Safety Admin- suance without requiring the per- In filing for the original exemp- renewed their (commercial learn- es already stretched to the limit,” istration will renew the Oregon mit holder to retake the necessary tion, Oregon argued that the 180- er’s permit) or obtained their ODOT said in its application. Department of Transportation’s tests. day timeline “adds nothing to the (commercial driver’s license) “ODOT is confident there would exemption from certain commer- The Code of Federal Regula- effectiveness of the rule itself.” within six months pose less risk on be no negative impact on safety if cial learner’s permit requirements, tions states that a commercial “ODOT asserts that neither the nation’s highways. the exemption is granted.” according to a document pub- learner’s permit can be valid for no FMCSA staff nor the states were “Adding the bureaucratic re- FMCSA agreed, saying in the lished in the Federal Register. more than 180 days from the date able to identify any highway safe- quirement for a (commercial learn- Federal Register document that The exemption will allow the of issuance. Oregon originally re- ty enhancement arising from this er’s permit) holder to visit a DMV “safety would not be diminished department and participating state ceived an exemption in April 2015. requirement,” the Federal Register office and pay a fee in order to get by allowing a validity period of driver’s licensing agencies to ex- FMCSA’s renewal decision means document states. “ODOT states a second six months of (commer- one year for the (commercial tend the permit timeline from 180 that the exemption will be valid that it is unaware of any data sug- cial learner’s permit) validity will learner’s permit).” 2018 Roadcheck to focus on hours-of-service compliance GREENBELT, Md. — The ers who were placed out of service During International Road- Additional items for buses in- If an inspector does identify Commercial Vehicle Safety Alli- during last year’s Roadcheck were check, inspectors will primarily clude seating, emergency exits and critical inspection item violations, ance has scheduled its 2018 Inter- cited for violations related to conduct the North American Stan- electrical cables and systems in the he or she may render the driver or national Roadcheck for June 5 to 7. hours-of-service regulations. dard Level I Inspection, a 37-step engine and battery compartments. vehicle out of service if the condi- Over the 72-hour period, in- “It’s definitely an area we need procedure that includes an exam- Drivers will be asked to pro- tion meets the North American spectors in jurisdictions through- to call attention to this year,” he ination of both driver operating re- vide their operating credentials Out-of-Service Criteria. This out North America will conduct said. “Although the electronic log- quirements and vehicle mechani- and hours-of-service documenta- means the driver cannot operate inspections of commercial motor ging device rule that went into ef- cal fitness. tion and will be checked for seat- the vehicle until the vehicle and/or vehicles and drivers, with a focus fect on Dec. 18, 2017, does not The vehicle inspection in- belt usage. Inspectors also will be driver qualification violation(s) on hours-of-service compliance. change any of the underlying cludes checking brake systems, attentive to apparent alcohol and/ are corrected. “The top reason drivers were hours-of-service rules or excep- cargo securement, coupling devic- or drug impairment. International Roadcheck is the placed out of service during 2017 tions, the ELD mandate placed a es, driveline/driveshaft compo- If no critical inspection item vi- largest targeted enforcement pro- International Roadcheck was for spotlight on hours-of-service nents, exhaust systems, frames, olations are found during a Level I gram on commercial motor vehi- hours-of-service violations,” said compliance. fuel systems, lighting devices, Inspection, a CVSA decal will be cles in the world, with around 17 CVSA President Capt. Christo- “We thought this year would steering mechanisms, suspen- applied to the vehicle, indicating trucks and buses inspected, on av- pher Turner of the Kansas High- be a perfect opportunity to focus sions, tires, van and open-top trail- that it successfully passed a de- erage, every minute in Canada, the way Patrol. on the importance of the hours-of- er bodies, wheels, rims and hubs, cal-eligible inspection conducted United States and Mexico during a Turner said 32 percent of driv- service regulations.” and windshield wipers. by a CVSA-certified inspector. 72-hour period. Can You Vehicle down time of $600+ per day Repair costs of $1,000+ per repair A UNIQUE ACCOUNTING FIRM Afford? Loss of customers... DEDICATED TO THE Extended MOTORCOACH INDUSTRY Then Consider Bus Warranties UNITED STATES WARRANTY Established CORPORATION 1975 New & Used Vehicle Coverage 99% Customer Satisfaction 24/7 Convenient Claims Service USWC You Choose Repair Facility CPA KNOWS Accounting Reduce Maintenance Budgets Commercial Bus Consultation Higher Vehicle Resale Values Warranties Financial Reporting Customized Bid Pricing Tax Preparation CONTACT US TODAY! (800) 233-9878 Tax Planning [email protected] http://www.uswceagle.com Years40 busbooks.co Of Warranty Experience 602.810.2412 WE ARE DEDICATED TO HELPING MOTORCOACH BUSINESSES WITH THEIR BOOKS Bus & Motorcoach News THE DOCKET May 1, 2018 9 MirrorEye capabilities. This assists with night right-hand turn, and incidents driving, operating under other low where the CMV strikes a pedestri- CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 North Carolina lighting conditions, and provides an or bicyclist while making right- mirrors, the aerodynamics of re- for glare reduction. hand turns. drivers need medical cards moving them in European trucks • Trailer panning — The CMS “Stoneridge also believes use School bus drivers in North medical card at least once every and buses has demonstrated a fuel automatically tracks the end of the of its CMS may help to reduce Carolina are now required to carry two years. cost savings of roughly 2 to 3 per- trailer to keep it in view while the driver fatigue by requiring less cent per year. vehicle is moving forward. Stone­ head movement by drivers com- a medical card in addition to their Previous North Carolina law In the Federal Register notice, ridge believes this feature could pared to the number of head move- license at all times. Bus drivers didn’t allow employers to know a Stoneridge listed the following eliminate collisions associated ment needed to use conventional have to pass, and pay for, a medi- driver’s medical conditions be- safety factors its MirrorEye with the CMV driver making a mirrors,” the company said. cal examination to receive their cause of privacy concerns. provides: • Greater field of view (FOV) than conventional mirrors — Mir- rors are replaced by wide angle, narrow angle and lookdown camer- as expanding the FOV by an esti- mated 25 percent. • Fail-safe design — The CMS has independent video processing of multiple camera images so that in the unlikely event of an individ- ual camera failure, the other cam- era images continue to be dis- played. This ensures that real-time images are continuously displayed without interruption. • Augmented and enhanced vi- sion quality — The use of high-definition digital cameras provides for color night vision, low light sensitivity and trailer panning N.Y. canals CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

ATA received a favorable deci- sion from the district court in 2016, which ruled that it was un- constitutional for the Thruway Authority to use millions of dol- lars in toll revenues paid by com- mercial truckers to maintain the state’s canal system. The opinion by a U.S. District Court judge for the Southern Dis- trict of New York determined the Thruway Authority’s diversion of toll revenue from truckers for the canals violates the U.S. Constitu- tion’s Dormant Commerce Clause. “Obviously, commercial truck- ers do not use the barge canals; they haul freight on the highway,” Chief District Court Judge Colleen McMahon wrote. “The truckers Working Together to Solve Your Puzzle may wish to enjoy bike paths, hik- ing trails and museums on a vaca- tion, but they are irrelevant while The cohesion of these four companies is for the sitting in the cab of an 18-wheeler. “The state of New York cannot insulate the Canal System from benefit of solving all of your transportation needs. the vagaries of the political pro- cess and taxpayer preferences by From full rehabs, to repowers, sales, and leasing, imposing the cost of its upkeep on those who drive the New York we can solve your problem whether big or small. Thruway in interstate commerce.” However, before the district court could rule on ATA’s class certification, the Thruway Au- thority discovered information in- completecoach.com sblbus.com dicating that Congress had indeed authorized it to devote surplus transitsales.com zepsdrive.com highway toll revenue toward the canal system. It was unclear how the ruling affects the ABA suit. 800.300.3751 | 800.BUS.SALE 10 May 1, 2018 INDUSTRY NEWS Bus & Motorcoach News National park fees at the Department of the Interior, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 which includes the NPS. “An Interior official familiar ISSUE NO. 352 ­increased funding for park infra- with the changes now being dis- structure. The government has cussed said some type of increase A Publication of the United Motorcoach Association failed to adequately fund the parks remains almost certain, but the for years, said Theresa Pierno, dramatic hike is being reconsid- Staff president and chief executive offi- ered for fear that it would cause Publisher, Executive Editor: cer of the National Parks Conser- visitation to plunge, reducing sore- Stacy Tetschner vation Association. ly needed revenue at top destina- Editor: Hal Mattern “American families should not tions,” the Post said. be forced to pay for what Congress “The official would not dis- Sales Director: Johnny Steger and the administration have failed close the revised rate structures Industry Editor: Ken Presley to do,” Pierno said. being considered but said the goal Associate Editor: Ellen Balm Another suggested source of is a more modest adjustment to Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah is one of 17 national parks that have funding is fees paid by companies fees that haven’t increased in a de- been targeted for substantial entrance fee increases. The National Park Art Director: Mary E. McCarty that extract minerals, oil and coal cade. A 10-percent fee increase for Service is reconsidering the increases in light of public criticism. Editorial Assistants: from national lands. Those leases all parks with entrance charges is Maggie Vander Eems often are criticized for their low on the table, as is a $20 increase in ming; Joshua Tree National Park, told federal officials that 74 per- Julianne Ryder costs. the $80 seasonal and senior pass- California; Mount Rainier Nation- cent of its operators include na- Rogers agreed. “Bottom line es,” the Post reported. al Park, Washington; Olympic Na- tional parks in their packages and Contact us is, park revenues should be gener- “The agency also is debating tional Park, Washington; Rocky 58 percent believe a fee increase would affect decisions on includ- To submit news, Letters to the Editor, ated from the leasing fees corpora- whether to increase tour buses’ Mountain National Park, Colora- articles, news releases or to report tions pay the government to extract flat-rate charge, he said, or to im- do; Sequoia & Kings Canyon Na- ing national parks in itineraries. corrections: billions of dollars worth of natural plement a per-passenger bus fee to tional Parks, California; Shenan- The National Park Conserva- [email protected] resources. Why hard-working increase revenue.” doah National Park, Virginia; tion Association, which has 1.3 2250 W. Roper Ln., Cottonwood, AZ 86326 families are being asked to pay Based on the Feb. 5 discus- Yellowstone National Park, Idaho, million members, says the 17 af- (602) 284-6049 more, and not these large corpora- sions at the Interior Department, Montana and Wyoming; Yosemite fected parks supported $6.7 billion National Park, California; and in economic activity and more Subscribe inquiries: tions, is a real head-scratcher.” Tetschner said the government [email protected] Tourism industry leaders ex- might be considering tour-group Zion National Park, Utah. than 75,000 private-sector jobs in 3108 NW 54th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73112 pressed their views in a Feb. 5 fees based on passenger numbers The federal government oper- 2016. Visitors to all national parks (866) 930-8421 • Fax: (405) 942-6201 meeting at the Interior Depart- rather than a flat rate per vehicle. ates 413 national parks that were spent $16.9 billion last year, ac- To advertise: Interested in placing an ad, ment. They included Stacy Tet- As proposed in October, fee in- visited by 331 million people in cording to NPS, supporting 295,000 jobs and $11.1 billion in and new to Bus & Motorcoach News? schner, president and CEO of the creases for visitors in private vehi- 2016. Jamie Williams at (352) 333-3393 United Motorcoach Association, cles would have taken effect when The NPS system, particularly payrolls in “gateway regions” — [email protected] National Tour Association (NTA) peak seasons begin in May or June. the 17 selected parks, is a signifi- communities within 60 miles of a President Pam Inman and Peter New fees on commercial vehicles cant contributor to national and in- park. Existing advertisers, or to submit ternational tourism. It is difficult to determine how advertising materials: Pantuso, president and CEO of the would have taken effect in 2019. Johnny Steger at (866) 930-8426 American Bus Association. The selected destinations were More than a third of interna- many park visitors arrive in com- [email protected] Tetschner said the group Acadia National Park, Maine; tional visitors to the U.S. visit a mercial vehicles. Each park posts 2200 N. Yarbrough, Suite B stressed that charter and tour oper- Arches National Park, Utah; Bryce national park, according to U.S. an annual report on the NPS web- Box No. 336, El Paso, TX 79925 ators would need at least 18 Canyon National Park, Utah; Can- Travel Association and U.S. Com- site but they are not formatted uni- Contact the yonlands National Park, Utah; De- merce Department statistics. formly and most do not identify months to work any fee increases United Motorcoach Association: About 13.6 million foreign travel- vehicle types. At the parks that did into their planning and marketing. nali National Park, Alaska; Glacier (800) 424-8262 • www.uma.org The government’s new position National Park, Montana; Grand ers — 36.5 percent of the 2017 identify arrivals by vehicle type, was reported by the Washington Canyon National Park, Arizona; total — toured at least one park. 2.1 percent to 29.2 percent of visi- Post after a meeting with officials Grand Teton National Park, Wyo- The National Tour Association tors arrived by bus. Advisory Board William Allen Marcia Milton Amador Trailways First Priority Trailways Sacramento, Calif. District Heights, Md. Company offers accounting services to operators Brian Annett David Moody Annett Bus Lines Holiday Tours PHOENIX — From increased Fickett hails from H&L Charter, a that don’t have the luxury of a fi- grams produce balance sheets and Sebring, Fla. Randleman, N.C. James M. Brown Sr. Michael Neustadt regulation to driver shortages, the family bus company in Rancho nancial support team to manage income statement reports. Those Magic Carpet Tours Coach Tours motorcoach industry has seen its Cucamonga, Calif. and maintain the necessary finan- two reports, by themselves, do not Richmond, Va. Brookfield, Conn. share of changes over the past few BUSBooks was created to help cial reporting to help them grow,” tell the entire financial story of a Roman Cornell Jeff Polzien years. One of the more notable operators prepare and refine finan- she said. company. ABC Companies Red Carpet Charters Orlando, Fla. Oklahoma City changes has been access to fund- cial statements that are required “When these companies are At Tour West America, Shelbo Dave Dickson Tom Ready ing that hasn’t been available since for business expansion. ready to expand by adding addi- helped grow the operation from Elite Coach Ready Bus Lines before the Great Recession. “We know this business, and tional coaches or making property one bus in 1986 to 22 coaches Ephrata, Pa. LaCrescent, Minn. From coach purchases to Small we know that operations always improvements, or if they are look- when he sold the company in 2017. Gladys Gillis Brian Scott Business Association loans, the come first,” Shelbo said. “When ing for investment capital of any “Every time we bought a new Starline Luxury Coaches Escot Bus Lines Seattle Largo, Fla. accessibility of inexpensive money you spend so much of your time kind, it can be difficult to do so bus or needed to get a loan to re- Bob Greene Tim Stout is causing more and more compa- running the business, there is little without solid credit approval, and finish a parking lot or remodel a Amaya-Astron Seating Stout’s Transportation nies to evaluate their financial fu- time available for the owners to getting that credit approval can de- building, we had to go through the Omaha, Neb. Ewing, N.J. ture and look at how they can create what we, as experts, can pend on the company’s ability to process of updating and cleaning John Grzywacz Dennis Strief CIT Signature Vandalia Bus Lines leverage this money to grow their provide them. And for most, our produce accurate, well-presented up our financial statements,” Shel- Transportation Caseyville, Ill. Ames, Iowa operations. service is not what the business financial statements.” bo said. “I wished that there was Alan Thrasher As a result, industry insiders owner enjoys or is trained to do.” The process of raising capital some way to have someone do that Larry Hundt Thrasher Brothers Peter Shelbo and Tracy Fickett, Fickett, a longtime CPA and can be complicated, and the fact for us, as we were always busy Great Canadian Trailways Trailways Kitchner, Ontario Birmingham, Ala. who have a combined 55 years of former CFO for H&L Charter, that a company has an accounting running the company and keeping Dale Krapf Larry Williams experience in the bus business, brings her financial expertise to system or bookkeeping service the coaches on the road. Krapf Coaches L.W. Transportation have launched a new financial ser- the company. does not, by its existence alone, “That need was really the gene- West Chester, Pa. Chantilly, Va. vice company called BUSBooks “Over the years, we saw that a mean that the financial reporting is sis of this project, and we are excit- Joan Libby Cavalier Coach Trailways (www.busbooks.co). large percentage of this industry is in a state that funding sources will ed to be able to step in during those Boston, Mass. Shelbo owned and operated comprised of small, family- be likely to approve and accept. moments and help companies move ©2018 by the United Motorcoach Association. Reproduction in Tour West America in Phoenix and owned-and-operated businesses Most in-house accounting pro- their objectives forward.” whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. 11Bus &May Motorcoach 1, 2018 News OPINION Bus &May Motorcoach 1, 2018 News11 Want to empty a bus? Squish a skunk through its vent By Dave Millhouser pegged and his hot-engine light the distinctive smell of overworked seared into your memory (pun cats). fired up. It turned out that the brakes. It is remarkably similar to intended). In ye pre-A/C days, an integral We were a smell was antifreeze — the liquid the cooked clutches of ye good old In ye olden days, for a dense part of coach “climate control” “traveling time he saw in the aisle was from a days. driver (like me) the first sign of a was vents on the front of the bus. warp” (descrip- leaking heater core. The coolant If you pick up that scent while flat tire on a dual might be the dis- In summer you opened them for tion stolen from that his engine needed to keep run- driving or stopped and you haven’t tinctive scent of burning rubber. ram airflow. my pal Warren). ning was instead puddled on the been punishing your brakes, then That’s because the vibration nor- A convoy of Brills was rolling The compa- floor. something is wrong, such as a mally associated with a flat is westward in close formation one ny I worked for Pretty quickly the venerable stuck caliper or some other nasti- sometimes disguised by rough night on the Kansas prairie when had bought the Detroit gave up the ghost (a hiss- ness that, if ignored, can lead to a road (or the desperate hope that it the leader hit a skunk. The unfor- entire fleet of a ing white cloud of steam). fire. is anything BUT a flat). tunate (and irritated) little stinker transit company in South Carolina, An astute driver would have If you notice a puddle under Modern tubeless tires make was tossed high in the air and land- and we were toddling northward noted the cloying smell of anti- your parked coach, your bus may tire fires less likely, but the smell ed “dead” center on the following toward our facility in New Jersey. freeze and stopped to look for its be marking its territory. But more of burning rubber is never good. coach’s wide-open vent. Several Fifteen ancient GM “flat-bot- source. A clever mechanic would likely it’s hemorrhaging some pre- Gee, maybe it’s just a frying belt. lessons were learned from this sin- tom” transits sporting 6-71 Detroit have known that losing cabin heat cious bodily fluid. If it smells like Sometimes odors originate gle event. diesels and two-speed automatics is a symptom of low coolant. water, it may just be A/C outside your coach. The truck next First, tailgating is bad. A bit roared up Interstate 95 at “flank Our guy was neither, and we condensate. to you has a flat or bakes its brakes. farther back and Brill No. 2 would speed,” occasionally exceeding 50 sold the bus, on the spot, for scrap. But oil, power steering fluid, Your lavatory may need service not have learned the second les- mph on long downgrades. You’re guessing our target here antifreeze and DEF each have OR you’re passing a sewage treat- son: the fastest way to evacuate a Desperate for drivers (other- is cooling systems. Gotcha. unique aromas. They ain’t Eau de ment plant (or both). bus is to squish a fresh skunk wise yours truly would not have It seemed a neat idea to discuss Bus. The point is that, if you don’t through its vent. been on this jaunt) we had even bus smells. If you aren’t familiar with know the source of an unusual Third, when a manufacturer in- drafted our lead mechanic for this Part of your training is the pre- them, ask your shop folks to let smell, assume it’s your problem stalls a screen over an opening, winter trek. trip inspection, and good drivers you sniff around the garage. You’ll until you can be certain it’s from don’t remove it. About 100 miles into the ad- take the time to walk around their get an education and some funny outside. The distinction between inside venture, he smelled something coaches at every stop, looking for looks. Some smells require immedi- and outside odors can be signifi- strange and noticed liquid trickling puddles, parts falling off or other Don’t taste stuff because some ate action, while others are less ur- cant when skunks and ram air are from under the dash and dribbling harbingers of disaster. is toxic and none is delicious gent. A pungent lavatory is a prob- involved. down the aisle. Simultaneously, he Why not chunk Bussy B.O. (don’t ask how I know). lem that can wait a bit. A flaming Dave Millhouser is a bus indus- figured out that he was cold and into the mix? Frequently, the earli- Electrical problems often have dual, not so much. Like cats, tire try marketing consultant and free- getting colder. est hints of impending disasters a unique aroma. It’s hard to de- fires have nine lives. You want to lance writer. Contact him by email Then his temperature gauge are olfactory. Most of us recognize scribe, but once experienced, it’s kill them early and often (fires, not at [email protected]. PowerPower ManufacturingManufacturing NowNow OffersOffers LANGLANG && LINNGLINNG ComponentsComponents Lang Part # Description

16-02-1231 Compressor Clutch MCI D/J Model with Bitzer Compressor 2008 or Newer

06-06-1582RM Clutch-Fan High Torque 3 Speed with Pulley Reman

550837RM/550965 Linnig Clutch, 3 Speed for Prevost Reman (550965)

10680752RM Van Hool Fan Clutch Reman All upgraded LANG components are directly interchangeable with OE Core Charge $400.

Contact your local representative for details. Mark Roberts 574-849-0080 [email protected] Charlie McCarron 407-403-2494 [email protected] Howard Nichols 407-808-3322 [email protected] Mike Hemby 352-430-7977 [email protected] Richard Olsonawski 253-219-0749 [email protected] Tim Ott 574-361-1170 [email protected] 877-500-6999 53087 Faith Avenue | Elkhart, IN 46514 www.power-mfg.com 12 May 1, 2018 INDUSTRY NEWS Bus & Motorcoach News Registration open for rural transportation conference BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. — and best practices. “What also makes our confer- and motorcoach industry, said the portation industry.” Registration is now open for the It will offer cutting-edge train- ence unique is the fact that includ- conference results in interaction be- The conference includes exhi- 23rd National Conference on ing and numerous workshops on ed are over 50 transit and mo- tween private intercity bus compa- bition space for vendors, includ- Rural Public and Intercity Bus bus operations, policy, technology, torcoach companies coming nies and the public-transit agencies. ing an outdoor exhibition space to Transportation. management and mobility. This together on how to work together “I often tell my clients, even if display buses and indoor booths This year’s conference — set year’s conference will feature na- to best give the public transporta- you are not involved in intercity bus for companies to display products for September 30 to October 3 in tionally known keynote speaker tion options,” Wilken said. scheduled service, this conference and services such as bus parts, Breckenridge — will focus on im- Donna Griggs presenting on how The conference also includes is important to attend as it gives you scheduling, ticketing and bus proving rural, regional and inter- to manage change. representatives from the U.S. De- the opportunity to learn from those washing. city mobility options. “We believe this is one of the partment of Transportation, the who are doing scheduled service,” More information about the The bi-annual conference, most important national confer- Federal Transit Administration Szyperski said. “It also gives you conference, including schedules, which got its start in 1976 in ences on rural transportation pro- and several state transportation the opportunity to meet federal and hotel accommodations and ven- Greensboro, N.C., will cover hot grams, as we bring in over 450 departments. state department of transportation dors, is available at www.ribtc.org. topics in rural public-transit, tribal transit professionals from around Mark Szyperski, president and professionals who may provide the The conference also is posting in- and intercity bus operations, high- the United States,” said Elena CEO of On Your Mark Transporta- information you need to consider formation on its Facebook page, lighting current applied research Wilken, conference co-chair. tion, a consulting firm to the bus this important segment of the trans- www.Facebook.com/RIBTC. Van Hool lands major hydrogen bus contract in German cities KONINGSHOOIKT (Lier), Belgium — 2019. Belgian coach builder Van Hool has landed “Hydrogen buses are vehicles with a high a significant contract with RVK Köln and added value and they’re of major importance WSW Wuppertal in Germany to supply 40 to the production facility in Koningshooikt,” hydrogen buses. said Van Hool CEO Filip Van Hool, adding The order consists of 30 ­fuel-cell buses that the order “is a serious boost for hydro- for Cologne and 10 for Wuppertal, making gen technology for public transport.” it the largest order for hydrogen-powered “All over Europe, public transport com- vehicles ever placed in Europe. panies are working hard to ‘greenify’ their These high-tech vehicles will be built in bus fleets,” Van Hool said. Belgian coach manufacturer Van Hool has received a contract to supply 40 A330 FC hydrogen the Van Hool factory in Koningshooikt. The Cologne has had two Van Hool hydro- fuel-cell buses to Cologne and Wuppertal, Germany, the largest order for hydrogen-powered first buses will be delivered in the spring of gen buses in service since May 2014. vehicles ever placed in Europe.

ur TABLE Yo th POR WASH ck g BUS Pi en tr THE MOST POTENT PACKET AVAILABLE S ULTRA CALL NOW! 1-800-974-7383 PowrPaks• Rapid Effervescent Ext. 114 Dispersion • The Most Active Odor WASH BUSES FAST & EASY! Control Formula Available Pick a • Amazing Fragrance performance level • Blue Non-Staining Color that meets your needs. • Non Formaldehyde ULTRA-LITE Operated by one person ELectric ULTRA- ULTRA 2X ULTRA 4X ULTRA 6X Minimize water & detergent use Battery ULTRA BIO

wash a full size coach in 8 minutes Diesel

800-974-7383 111-118 Industrial Dr. 203-637-1900 817-478-3221 Kennedale, TX 76060 [email protected] 817-561-1293 (fax) cpacex.com Bus & Motorcoach News INDUSTRY NEWS May 1, 2018 13 Transit agency to install pedestrian detection systems LAFAYETTE, Ind. — CityBus an enters a blind spot near the protection for pedestrians. tion of State Street and the addi- “We are pleased that our local plans to use a $485,760 Federal vehicle. “Safety is a key tenet at City- tion of even more bicycle and elected leaders and the Federal Transit Administration grant to in- CityBus applied for the funds Bus. It is baked into every aspect pedestrian facilities, we knew it Transit Administration agree.” stall pedestrian detection systems in response to the growing popula- of everything we do here,” said would be necessary for CityBus to CityBus plans to begin upgrad- on its fleet of nearly 70 fixed-route tion density in downtown Lafay- Martin Sennett, CityBus general take additional precautionary mea- ing its vehicles with the new tech- vehicles. ette and West Lafayette. manager. “With the reconfigura- sures to ensure the safety of all. nology this fall. The total amount of the project “We are keeping an eye on the including local funds is $607,200. increasing density of the urban de- The grant was awarded under a velopment taking place near cam- Section 5339 Bus and Bus Facili- pus,” said Bryce Gibson, manager of ties Infrastructure Investment pro- development. “Our drivers are al- gram, which is dedicated to pro- ways vigilant for potential vehi- viding funding for capital projects cle-pedestrian conflicts. We want to that improve, rehabilitate or re- make sure they have all the tools they place existing transit vehicles and need to avoid a tragic situation.” vehicle equipment. CityBus, the operating name The system that CityBus will for Greater Lafayette Public Trans- install will cost about $8,000 per portation Corporation, operates vehicle, with some money set aside hundreds of thousands of miles on for replacement parts. Once the some of the busiest streets in the system is installed, bus operators Lafayette area. The goal of the cen will be alerted any time a pedestri- project is to add an extra layer of he s ic r t ou e t stated, “Plaintiffs intend to argue k e a MCI verdict . T CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 that grief and sorrow caused Dr. Barin’s cancer to accelerate and During the six-week trial be- caused her passing. Notwithstand- fore Judge Adriana Escobar, attor- ing the rather novel and unique Ev e. neys representing Khiabani’s sons theory on which Plaintiffs intend ery tim alleged that the 2008 MCI J4500 to proceed, this is plainly not a motorcoach was defective in de- foreseeable outcome from a legal sign because it had a right-side standpoint.” driver’s blind spot, lacked proxim- The court granted MCI’s mo- ity sensors to warn of the bicy- tion to dismiss the claim. clist’s presence, lacked a rear- The Review-Journal reported wheel protective barrier, and had that on the day of closing argu- an aerodynamic design that could ments, the bus company’s insurer cause a wind blast to destabilize offered a $1 million settlement and pull in bicyclists. that was declined. After deliberating for less than However, a lawyer for MCI a day in Clark County District disputed the newspaper’s report, Court on March 23, the jurors re- saying no insurer offered a $1 mil- turned a verdict finding none of lion settlement. those alleged four defects “made “Bus design, in general, hasn’t the coach unreasonably dangerous changed a whole lot over the and a legal cause of Dr. Khiabani’s years. So, it’s hard to imagine that death.” this model has a particular issue Then the jury answered “yes” that others wouldn’t, or an issue to the fifth question on the verdict that wouldn’t have been exposed form, “Did MCI fail to provide an previously in other similar inci- adequate warning that would have dents,” said Matt Daecher, a trans- been acted upon?” portation safety expert and presi- The jury awarded $16.2 mil- dent of Daecher Consulting Group. lion to Khiabani’s two sons to “This might simply be a good compensate for grief, sorrow, loss case study of why parties in a legal Mobile observation has finally unprecedented 190° wide angle of companionship and loss of sup- matter are usually skeptical to try a port. An additional $1 million was case — you just never are sure come full circle with the SEE360 view, the SEE360 provides awarded to Khiabani’s heirs for his what the jury will be convinced camera system from Voyager.® increased awareness on pain and suffering. of,” Daecher said. This four-camera system the busiest city streets. The jurors decided MCI was Such a verdict illustrates the ° not liable for punitive damages. reason that insurers recommend gives you a seamless, 360 Keep your passengers and Jurors awarded $1.5 million to their clients carry higher liability panoramic view around the pedestrians safe while you the estate of Khiabani’s wife, den- coverage minimums than required entire vehicle. Because each maneuver your vehicle tist Katayoun Barin, who died by law, said Michelle Wiltgen, as- from cancer last October. Her can- sistant vice president and national individual camera offers an with confidence. cer had been diagnosed three marketing manager at National In- months before the accident. Fol- terstate Insurance Company. lowing her death, plaintiffs’ attor- A transportation carrier or neys sought to add a claim for her product manufacturer cannot be- wrongful death to the MCI suit. lieve that following laws and regu- MCI attorneys filed a motion lations is enough to be safe before www.RVCams.com • Toll-free: 877.378.2267 • [email protected] in opposition to this claim, which CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 c 14 May 1, 2018 INDUSTRY NEWS Bus & Motorcoach News MCI verdict swered questions. I don’t think it is argued that proximity sensors were ages for product liability without over,” Wiltgen said. not viable for motorcoach use identifying a specific defect. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 People Presley agreed that it is too when the 2008 coach was built. The plaintiffs’ attorneys cited a a jury, Wiltgen said. early to tell what the ramifications “The law is exactly the oppo- precedent case in Nevada in which SAINTE- “With any emotional case that are, if any. site of what Plaintiffs say it is. The “It has been held that ‘a specific CLAIRE, goes to trial, you have a jury of “I understand the verdict is Nevada Supreme Court has held defect in the product is not an es- Quebec — people who aren’t necessarily ex- being appealed and the jury’s deci- that commercial availability is a sential element in establishing a Serge Gonthi- perts in that field,” she said. “It sion could very well be over- necessary, but not sufficient, con- cause of action’ since ‘in the field er, Prevost/ looks to me like they were a sym- turned,” he said. dition for feasibility. An alterna- of product liability the focus is on pathetic jury. I am not sure MCI Plaintiffs’ attorney William tive design that is not commercial- the product and not necessarily on sales manager did anything wrong and I am sure Kemp told the Courtroom View ly available because nobody makes its component parts.’” for the Quebec Serge Gonthier they will appeal.” Network that the case should be it is, by definition, not commer- As for the four alleged defects region, has The jury demonstrated the rea- remembered as the first product li- cially feasible,” they stated. (which jurors later rejected), the been appointed to the Ontario son that similar cases rarely go be- ability case against a bus manufac- According to a Nevada prece- Khiabani attorneys argued, “There Motor Coach Association fore juries, Wiltgen said. turer to recover for poor aerody- dent, MCI wrote, “Plaintiffs may is a safer alternative which had ei- (OMCA) board of directors. “Fewer than 1 percent of these namic design. not introduce evidence of a safer ther been developed by MCI or was Serving bus and coach opera- cases go to trial for that reason. “Because there are hundreds of alternative design, however, if at both practicable and feasible.” tors throughout Canada, the They (the plaintiffs) went for the thousands of buses and large that time the design was not com- Based on that case, they ar- OMCA mission is to enhance the deep pockets. Nevada is a tough trucks on the road today that also mercially feasible.” gued, “The standard pattern jury safety and quality of its member place to do business,” she said. have bad aerodynamic design that instruction explicitly states that companies through education, But businesses that believe impacts millions of unwary bicy- Cost not a factor Plaintiffs need not prove that the awareness and advocacy for all they are falsely accused often want clists as they pass, other like law- The judge ruled that plaintiffs’ bus had any specific defect.” facets of the motorcoach industry. to fight the case. suits are inevitable,” Kemp said. counsel could not admit evidence In its response filing, MCI at- OMCA reserves one position “Many times, insureds such as “Plaintiffs hope that the verdict concerning the cost of proximity torneys said plaintiffs had asked the on its board of directors for a ve- motorcoach companies are upset stimulates the manufacturers of sensors. In a pre-trial memoran- court “to give them the benefit of hicle OEM product and service when an insurer settles a claim. large buses and trucks to design dum, the judge ruled that MCI had an inapplicable product malfunc- representative. Well, this is why they often settle,” safer vehicles that are not aerody- stated “it found the technology to tion doctrine. A product-liability “I am extremely pleased to said Ken Presley, vice president of namically dangerous.” be incompatible with its motor­ plaintiff must generally prove a de- accept this position on the OMCA legislative and regulatory affairs Actually there are 10.7 million coaches…MCI did not conscious- fect by reference to some specific board,” Gonthier said. “I am look- and industry relations/COO for the large trucks and 764,509 buses ly reject the proximity sensors… attribute of the product.” ing forward to working with the United Motorcoach Association. registered in the U.S., according to out of a desire to cut costs.” Quoting from a precedent to membership and helping with the “Courts and juries are largely 2017 statistics published by the The judge denied the plaintiffs’ this case, they stated, “In Nevada, complexities involved in running unpredictable and the process is Federal Motor Carrier Safety effort to allege that cost was a rea- plaintiff bears the burden of estab- motorcoaches; from the vehicles, very expensive. I spent nearly 30 Administration. son that MCI chose not to equip the lishing the product is defective, components and systems to oper- years insuring motorcoaches and I Considerable pre-trial debate motorcoach with a guard to prevent which requires a showing that it ations and customer service from never saw anything like this one. It regarded the availability and feasi- pedestrians and cyclists from being ‘failed to perform in the manner an OEM perspective.” took a lot of dollars to bring this bility during the 2008 model year run over by wheels. One of the ex- reasonably expected in light of its Gonthier officially took his suit,” Presley said. of proximity warning sensors that pert witnesses called by the plain- nature and intended function and it seat on the board in April during “It’s easy to say if you don’t like would sound an alert to drivers tiffs was identified as the president was more dangerous than would OMCA’s annual meeting and the decision you can always appeal when a pedestrian or bicyclist is of the company that makes such a be contemplated by the ordinary marketplace, replacing his pre- — until you learn the cost and learn beside a motorcoach or truck. product, the S-1 GARD. user having the ordinary knowl- decessor, Guy Tessier of Motor that courts do not always agree to The Khiabani attorneys pre- The manufacturer describes the edge available in the community.’ Coach Industries. hear appeals,” he said. “Often when sented evidence that warning de- product as “a securely mounted “Evidence of an accident or in- “We are grateful that Serge they do agree, the case is remanded vices were available on automo- maintenance-free barrier installed jury is not in itself evidence of a will be joining us,” OMCA Presi- right back to the court that you lost biles at that time and produced in front of the right rear wheels of a defect. This is not a case of prod- dent and CEO Doug Switzer said. in to begin with.” press releases and advertisements or motorcoach,­ designed uct malfunction and plaintiffs have “He enjoys tremendous relation- regarding sensor availability on to deflect a person out of the path of not even suggested that it is. Plain- ships throughout our industry. Avoiding trial 2018-model buses. the wheels, preventing catastrophic tiffs’ theories of defect run the Serge has earned deep respect not Wiltgen said National Inter- In a pre-trial filing, the plain- injury or death.” gamut from questionable applica- only for his work with Prevost, state stresses to customers that tiffs’ attorneys stated, “According In a pre-trial memorandum, the tions of Bernoulli’s principle to a but also for his knowledge in all legal liability and jury verdicts are to the October 15, 2007, edition of judge wrote, “The misimpression rubber guard anointed with super- matters concerning motorcoach- separate issues. Bus and Motorcoach News (the that MCI cut corners to save hero powers. es, beyond his areas of expertise, “We would avoid going to trial leading trade journal in the bus in- money is highly prejudicial and “Plaintiffs have argued that bi- from the mechanical and techno- on that issue at all costs,” she said. dustry), a bus manufacturer named has minimal value to feasibility… cycles veer into buses and get run logical aspects to regulatory is- “They (MCI) didn’t think they BCI offered the Eaton side prox- Nobody in Nevada uses the S-1 over all the time. Although defects sues and safety advocacy.” had any liability, but this is the risk imity sensors as a standard feature Gard and MCI has always con- may play a role in some accidents, you run when you are going to on its 2007 (Falcon 45) coach.” tended it was simply unaware the in others the injury occurs because (Daniel Bernoulli, an 18th-cen- trial.” North American importation technology existed in 2007 when of the driver’s or the cyclist’s bad tury Swiss mathematician and Will this case set a troubling of the Chinese-built BCI (Bus & the coach was manufactured.” judgment…the lay observer would physicist, devised Bernoulli’s Prin- precedent for liability standards in Coach International) buses ended In pre-trial discussions of jury properly conclude that there was cipl, which describes speed-relat- the motorcoach industry? in 2009. instructions, attorneys argued no product malfunction, just an ed changes in the pressure of flu- “There are still too many unan- In its response, MCI attorneys whether jurors could award dam- accident.” ids, including air.)

Van Hool 44781 ✓Turnkey 21-24 New England Bus August 2018 Ready Calendar Association Annual Conference, 2012 T2145 7-10 International Motorcoach Water’s Edge Resort & Spa, ✓Detroit/ June 2018 Group Strategic Alliance Meet- Westbrook, Conn. Info: www. Allison ing, Doubletree Hilton, Sonoma, ✓Low Miles 2 Museum of Bus Transporta- newenglandbus.org tion Spring Fling, Hershey, Pa. Calif. Info: www.imgcoach.com ✓57 Pass July 2018 Info: www.aacamuseum.org 16-19 2018 NAMO Annual ✓5 Monitors 22-26 AMA-SCMA-GMOA 18-21 Pennsylvania Bus Conference, Westin Cape Coral ✓110 Outlets Regional Meeting, Evergreen Association Annual Meeting, Resort at Marina Village, Cape Marriott Conference Resort, Call Charlie Doubletree Hilton, Williamsburg, Stone Mountain, Ga. Info: www. Coral, Fla. Info: www.namo- 714.713.2728 Pa. Info: www.pabus.org gamotorcoachoperators.org coaches.org OUR OUTSTANDING COAST-TO-COAST SERVICE NETWORK COVERS A WHOLE LOT OF MILES. THAT IS A WHOLE LOT OF PEACE OF MIND.

The world’s greatest coaches deserve the world’s greatest service. It’s why Prevost built the largest service network in North America. You can hit the road with confidence knowing our expert factory-trained technicians will be nearby to provide your coach with the best service available, anywhere.

prevostcar.com

Supported by the Prevost Parts & Service network.

PRE_8340_Services_BusMotorcoach_10,25x13_E02.indd 1 17-09-27 16:20 Re-Energize your fleet with an MCI pre-owned coach

Behind every great, pre-owned MCI coach, there’s a great team of experts. Standing behind a pre-owned coach is easy when you’ve known it since it was new. That’s the MCI advantage. Only MCI offers a complete refurbishing of post-2007 J4500 models back to new through its popular Re-Energized program that come with a 2 year engine and transmission limited warranty. To simplify shopping, we also categorize coaches in service-ready Select+ and lowest cost Deal classifications. And because it’s an MCI, you have the unrivaled support of our entire service network.

Whatever you’re looking for in a pre-owned coach, you’ll find it at MCI.

Call your MCI pre-owned coach pro today.

Marshall Deems Brian Lichter Bob Dethloff Walter Sturdivant Randy Wilcox Jason Rounsaville Brian Hill Janet Cathey Chad Sadowy Guy Charron WEST COAST NORTH CENTRAL MID WEST MID ATLANTIC NORTH EAST ROCKY MOUNTAIN SOUTH CENTRAL SOUTH EAST CANADA WEST CANADA EAST (818) 519-7193 (224) 688-6351 (847) 867-5191 (609) 876-3713 (609) 876-3711 (720) 383-5797 (214) 725-0490 (678) 472-1743 (204) 227-1616 (514) 240-8448

See our complete available inventory at mcicoach.com/preowned

POC ad 2018 _BMN.indd 1 3/9/18 11:48 AM