M&D Travel – Terms & Conditions of Coach
Hire
These Terms & Conditions form the basis of the agreement between the hirer and M&D Travel, and apply to all bookings unless otherwise stated in writing.
1. Quotations
All quotations are given subject to the availability of a suitable vehicle at the time of acceptance. Quotations are valid for 28 days from the date of issue unless otherwise stated.
2. Payment
Payment must be made on or before the date of travel unless a credit account has been established and confirmed by the Company.
3. Cancellation by Hirer
If the hirer cancels a booking, the following charges apply:
- 7 days or more before travel – No charge
- 3–7 days before travel – 25% of total hire charge
- 1–2 days before travel – 50% of total hire charge
- Day of hire – Minimum of 50% of hire
- After vehicle has arrived at departure point – 100% of hire
4. Cancellation Due to Weather
Cancellations due to inclement weather are subject to the same charges as listed in Clause 3.
5. Cancellation by the Company
In the event of an emergency, or where the hirer significantly alters the agreed conditions, the Company reserves the right to cancel the contract. Any monies paid will be refunded in full, and the Company shall have no further liability.
6. Driver’s Hours & Legal Compliance
Drivers’ hours are regulated by law. The hirer agrees to ensure the itinerary does not breach these regulations. The Company may modify or curtail the hire if compliance is at risk. Any resulting costs due to the hirer’s failure to adhere to legal limits will be the hirer’s responsibility.
7. Seating Capacity
The number of passengers must not exceed the seating capacity stated on the vehicle. No standing passengers are permitted.
8. Animals
Animals are not permitted on any vehicle, with the exception of registered guide dogs.
9. Variation of Hire
Additional charges will apply if the vehicle is retained beyond the agreed time or used for a longer journey than contracted.
10. Passenger Conduct
The driver has full authority over the vehicle and its passengers. Any passengers behaving inappropriately or unlawfully may be removed. The hirer is liable for any damage caused by passengers to the vehicle.
11. Property
The Company does not accept liability for loss or damage to personal property left on the vehicle. Lost property will be held at the depot from which the vehicle is based and may be collected by prior arrangement.
12. Type of Vehicle
Unless otherwise requested, a standard vehicle will be provided. Standard vehicles do not include air conditioning or entertainment systems. The Company reserves the right to upgrade a journey (or part of it) without prior notice.
13. Change of Vehicle
The Company may substitute a larger vehicle at no extra cost or use a subcontracted operator if necessary.
14. Breakdowns and Delays
The Company provides journey time estimates in good faith but does not guarantee arrival times. No compensation is provided for delays under 90 minutes. For delays:
- 91–120 minutes – Up to 10% compensation may be considered
- 120 minutes or more – Up to 40% compensation may be considered
Compensation will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and is not guaranteed.
15. Complaints
Complaints should be raised with the driver or Company representative at the time of travel. If unresolved, written complaints must be submitted within 14 days of the hire date to:
M&D Travel
Ethan House, Unit 16,
Royce Ave, Billingham,
TS23 4BX
Complaints will be acknowledged within 14 working days and a resolution aimed for within 28 days.
16. Retention of Vehicle
Unless agreed in writing, it should not be assumed that the vehicle will remain at the destination until the return journey.
17. Route
Unless a specific route or stop has been requested and confirmed in writing, the route taken is at the discretion of the Company and/or driver.
18. Alcohol and Smoking
Alcohol may not be carried or consumed on the vehicle without prior written permission from the Company. All vehicles are strictly non-smoking for the safety and comfort of passengers.
19. Seat Belts
All coaches are fitted with seat belts, and it is a legal requirement that they are worn by all passengers at all times while the vehicle is in motion.