Terms of Service

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Smoky Bear Shuttle Terms Of Service & Policy

Cancellation Policy

Smoky Bear Shuttle does not issue refunds for cancellations unless Easy Cancellation is purchased. If you book with us and later change your mind, you have 24 hours from the time of booking to call and cancel. We reserve the right to verify the time of your booking to determine eligibility for this courtesy, which is only available for advanced bookings and will be refunded to the original method of payment. This courtesy does not apply to bookings within 24 hours of the pick up, last-minute or same-day bookings unless Easy Cancellation was purchased.

All reservations must be confirmed at least 24 hours in advance by calling 865-441-4812. Text messages or other forms of communication will not be accepted as valid confirmation.
While clients are not required to confirm their reservation, Smoky Bear Shuttle strongly recommends doing so by calling 865-441-4812 at least 24 hours in advance. Although Smoky Bear Shuttle strongly recommends doing so, if you choose not to call and confirm and there is an issue with your pick-up time or booking, Smoky Bear Shuttle will not be held responsible. Failure to confirm may result in scheduling discrepancies, and no refund or credit will be issued in such instances.

If Easy Cancellation was not purchased and you cancel your reservation, Smoky Bear Shuttle will issue a credit toward a future service, unless the cancellation occurs within 24 hours prior to your scheduled trip. No refund will be issued unless Easy Cancellation was purchased.

If Easy Cancellation was purchased, Smoky Bear Shuttle will issue a refund to the original method of payment to ensure a smooth and easy process. However, please note that depending on your bank or credit card provider, the refund may take several business days to appear on your account. Refunds are typically processed within 3–5 business days, but we are not responsible for delays imposed by financial institutions.

This courtesy is only available for advanced bookings. Refunds are not guaranteed unless Easy Cancellation was purchased and will be at the sole discretion of management if the cancellation does not meet the conditions for Easy Cancellation. If a cash refund is approved, we reserve the right to issue the refund by check for our recordkeeping and verification purposes, unless otherwise approved by management.

If you have purchased the Easy Cancellation option at the time of booking, you may cancel or modify your reservation up to 1 hour prior to the scheduled pickup time and receive a refund to your original method of payment.

Cancellations made within 24 hours of the scheduled pickup time, and without the Easy Cancellation option, will forfeit all money paid. Easy Cancellation does not cover medical-related trips, emergencies, trip delays caused by third parties such as airlines or other transportation services, lost luggage, or any non-service-related issues. It applies only to services booked directly through Smoky Bear Shuttle.

Cancelation and Refund

• Cancellations made within 24 hours of the scheduled service will result in forfeiture of the deposit or fare paid.
 

• We reserve the right to close booking windows past a certain hour.

• If we have already commenced the trip to pick you up and you cancel, you will forfeit the deposit or entire fare. Refunds will not be provided in such cases

• No-shows will be charged the full fare.

• Refunds, if applicable, will be processed based on the cancellation policy.

• We reserve the right to cancel services at our discretion. In the event of a cancellation initiated by us, a full refund will be issued to the original payment method provided at the time of booking.

Service Hours

• Our services are available 24/7

• While we offer 24/7 service, guaranteeing availability is contingent upon scheduling in advance.

• While we are 24 hours, last minute service may be limited between the hours of 2:00 AM-8:00 AM

• Clients must schedule services in advance to ensure the availability of our 24/7 offerings.

• Last-minute requests for 24/7 service are subject to availability and may incur additional fees.

Surcharge Information*

• For reservations made between 2am and 8 am, a last min guarantee surcharge may apply. This surcharge is designed to ensure the availability of our services during late-night hours and will be clearly communicated at the time of booking. The details of the surcharge will be communicated during the booking process.

• If you are late, and we have to wait more than a ten minute grace period, a fee will be assessed (10-30 minutes = $35) (30-60 minutes = $75) 

• If outside our regular service area, we reserve the right to charge an additional fee if outside our regular service area. Payment must be collected before we can send a driver.

• A surcharge may apply for services on and around holidays.

• A surcharge may be applied during peak traffic hours to compensate for increased time.

• A surcharge may be applicable for groups of 4 or more passengers.

• We reserve the right to charge additional fees based on specific conditions such as time of day, holidays, or traffic conditions. Fees will be communicated clearly at the time of booking, providing transparency regarding any additional charges that may apply.

*Our commitment to transparent pricing includes a “No Surge Pricing” policy. If we transport you to a destination for a specified fare, rest assured that the return journey to your origin will be offered at the same agreed-upon price.

Pricing and Payment Terms

Full payment is required prior to pickup to confirm and secure your reservation. Smoky Bear Shuttle does not guarantee service unless payment is received in advance. For safety reasons, drivers do not always carry change and are not authorized to accept unpaid or partially paid bookings at the time of service.

Payment must be received in advance, unless otherwise approved at the sole discretion of management. By booking with Smoky Bear Shuttle, you acknowledge and agree to this payment & reservation policy.

• Pricing for our services will be clearly communicated at the time of booking.

• A payment or deposit, as determined at the driver’s discretion, will be required based on multiple factors, including but not limited to, time of day, group size, holidays, traffic conditions, and day of the week.

• Clients will be informed of the specific payment terms during the booking process.

• Pricing for our services will be clearly communicated at the time of booking.

• If you change destinations, we reserve the right to charge a change fee.

• We reserve the right to cancel and refund you if the cabin is too far out.

• If you book online for the wrong fare type, in which your intended location is farther out, we reserve the right to collect the additional fare difference.

Service Disclaimer*

*By boarding our shuttle, you hereby consent to the recording of your image and/or voice for future marketing promotions. These recordings may be used in various media, including but not limited to our online social media platforms and marketing materials.

We emphasize that the excursions and overall experience are shaped by our subjective viewpoint. This means that our unique approach influences the crafting of memorable journeys. While we strive for excellence, individual interpretations and preferences may vary. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility, recognizing that our perspective contributes to the distinctive character of each excursion.

Our commitment to excellence, shaped by our commitment to providing exceptional experiences lent to creating these excursions itineraries. While we strive for excellence and aim to create memorable journeys, individual experiences may vary.

We retain the right to modify itineraries based on various factors, including weather conditions and visibility, timing adjustments, operational requirements, business partnerships, business closures, availability, overcrowding, or unforeseen circumstances, etc. Our subjective viewpoint guides these decisions as we endeavor to offer diverse and enriching experiences. As we cater to evolving interests, our excursion selection is subject to change and may be different the next time you are in the area.

By participating in our excursions, you acknowledge and consent to being recorded, including audio and video recordings, which we reserve the right to use for promotional and documentation purposes. It’s important to note that while we strive for 5 star service we can not guarantee universal satisfaction, and we appreciate your understanding and flexibility in such situations. We value your support of our small business and strive to balance safety, satisfaction, and the unique character of each journey.

We retain the right to modify itineraries based on various factors, including weather conditions, visibility timing adjustments, operational requirements, business partnerships, business closures, availability, overcrowding, or unforeseen circumstances, etc. Additionally, Stops presented may be substituted or eliminated due to unforeseen circumstances, as outlined above.

As we aim to provide diverse experiences tailored to evolving interests, our excursion selection is subject to change over time. Stops presented may be substituted or eliminated due to unforeseen circumstances, as outlined above.

Moreover, we want to emphasize that we assume no liability for harm, injury, damage, loss, or inconvenience during the excursion. This includes issues arising from interactions with vendors, venues, or locations visited. By choosing to embark on this adventure, you willingly assume all responsibility and liability. While prioritizing safety, we encourage responsible engagement, following guidelines provided by our team and the staff of the vendors at the stops.

We are not responsible for acts of God, weather conditions, visibility issues, traffic conditions, or any other external factors beyond our control. While we strive to provide reliable services, unforeseen circumstances may impact our ability to adhere to schedules. Your understanding in such situations is appreciated. We prioritize your safety while striving for a 5-star experience.

Your understanding and flexibility are appreciated, and we thank you for supporting our small business.

Reservation Confirmation Policy

By booking with Smoky Bear Shuttle, you acknowledge that it is your responsibility to confirm your reservation details—by calling 865-441-4812 at a minimum 24 hours in advance.

By booking you agree and acknowledge Smoky Bear Shuttle is not responsible for missed trips, incorrect timing, or delays resulting from unconfirmed reservations. We reserve the right to deny service or refuse schedule adjustments if confirmation is not received within the required time frame.

Child Passenger Safety Policy

In compliance with Tennessee law, all children under 8 years old and under 4’9” must be secured in an appropriate child restraint (car seat or booster). It is the parent or guardian’s responsibility to provide and install the proper seat unless arranged in advance.
Smoky Bear Shuttle may offer limited car seats upon request and availability. A waiver must be signed, and installation remains the responsibility of the parent or guardian. Drivers may refuse service if a child is not properly restrained. By booking, the client agrees to comply with these terms and releases Smoky Bear Shuttle from liability related to child restraint use or non-use

Terms and Conditions Update Policy

Smoky Bear Shuttle reserves the right to update, modify, or amend the terms and conditions from time to time. By booking with us, you agree to be bound by the current, past, and future versions of these terms, and acknowledge that we are not required to provide notice of any changes.

Unannounced Passengers and Children Policy

If you arrive with additional passengers or children not disclosed at the time of booking, Smoky Bear Shuttle reserves the right to modify the reservation, charge additional fees, or refuse service. By booking with us, you agree to provide accurate details of all passengers in advance, and acknowledge that any changes to the reservation may result in additional charges or denial of service based on availability and capacity requirements.

You are responsible for your children while aboard the shuttle. Smoky Bear Shuttle shall not be held liable for any injuries or incidents involving children or other passengers during the course of the service.

Conduct Policy

Smoky Bear Shuttle reserves the right to refuse or cancel service without refund if any passenger exhibits behavior that is disruptive, threatening, abusive, intoxicated, belligerent, or otherwise deemed unsafe or inappropriate toward any driver or member of our staff. This policy is strictly enforced to protect the safety, well-being, and dignity of our team and all passengers.

Pickup Window Policy

Each reservation is subject to a 30-minute pickup window. Smoky Bear Shuttle may arrive anytime between 15 minutes before and 15 minutes after your scheduled pickup time. Clients are recommended to be ready 15 minutes prior to the pickup time, but they are not required to do so. However, if the client is not present by the end of the 15-minute grace period after the scheduled time, Smoky Bear Shuttle reserves the right to charge a late fee or cancel the reservation without refund.

Flight Delay Policy

At Smoky Bear Shuttle, we understand that flight delays can occur, and we will do our best to accommodate your new arrival time. If your flight is delayed, please contact us as soon as possible to inform us of the updated arrival time. We will adjust your pick-up time based on availability and our schedule, ensuring that we meet you as soon as possible after you land.

Please note, however, that our shuttle services are scheduled based on other pre-existing reservations, and we may need to shift our schedule to fit your new arrival time. In such cases, we ask for your patience as there may be a wait while we work to accommodate you. While we make every effort to minimize delays, please understand that we cannot guarantee an immediate pick-up due to prior commitments with other guests.

If your flight is delayed significantly, and we cannot adjust to accommodate the new arrival time within a reasonable timeframe, we will communicate with you promptly and do our best to find a suitable solution. However, flight delays or cancellations by the airline do not justify a refund unless Easy Cancellation was purchased, and all cancellations or adjustments will follow the guidelines of our existing cancellation policy.

We are committed to providing the best experience possible and will always work to ensure you get to your destination with minimal disruption.

Ride Expectations Policy

At Smoky Bear Shuttle, we strive to provide a private ride experience for each guest whenever possible. For airport transfers, we prioritize delivering a private experience for all clients. However, during peak times or due to logistical requirements, your ride may occasionally be shared with other passengers. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility, as this helps us maintain efficient and timely service for all.

To ensure a guaranteed private experience for airport transfers, you may upgrade to the No-Share Fare Upgrade. This upgrade must be booked and paid for at the time of reservation. Without this upgrade, rides may be combined with other passengers as necessary.

For tours and excursions, we may make multiple stops to pick up other guests along the way. However, with the No-Share Fare Upgrade, you will receive a private pick-up and drop-off experience, ensuring the utmost convenience and exclusivity. This upgrade must be booked and paid for at the time of reservation.

We also reserve the right to adjust scheduling to accommodate additional guests. While we strive to avoid such adjustments, occasional changes to pick-up times may be necessary due to factors beyond our control, such as delays from other passengers or unforeseen logistical challenges. We will do our best to ensure that these adjustments cause minimal disruption.

Our goal is to provide a 5-star experience for every guest. If you have any questions regarding this policy, please contact us at 865-441-4812 or via email.

Lost and Found Policy

Smoky Bear Shuttle is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items during transport. While we make every effort to ensure the safety and security of all belongings, passengers are encouraged to keep their personal items secure and with them at all times.

If an item is left behind in one of our vehicles, we will make reasonable efforts to locate it and retain it for up to one week from the date of the ride. After this period, any unclaimed items may be discarded or donated.

To claim a lost item, please contact us at 865-441-4812 or via email. Once the item is confirmed and retrieved, we will ship it to the passenger’s address at their expense. Shipping, handling, and processing fees will apply, and the client is responsible for covering these costs.

Please note that Smoky Bear Shuttle is not responsible for items left behind, and we strongly recommend keeping all valuables in your possession during your ride.

Additional Terms and Conditions for Smoky Bear Shuttle Services

Liability Disclaimer:
Smoky Bear Shuttle is not liable for any personal injury, loss, or damage that occurs during transportation. All passengers are responsible for their own belongings, and we recommend securing all valuables while on the vehicle.

Force Majeure Clause (Unforeseen Circumstances):
Smoky Bear Shuttle is not responsible for delays or cancellations caused by factors beyond our control, such as weather, road closures, natural disasters, accidents, or other unforeseen events.

Passenger Conduct:
Smoky Bear Shuttle reserves the right to refuse service or remove any passenger from the vehicle for inappropriate behavior, safety concerns, or violation of our policies. Any damages caused by a passenger will be the responsibility of that individual.

Service Interruptions:
In the event of a mechanical failure or other unforeseen circumstances that prevent us from completing a scheduled ride, we will make reasonable efforts to provide an alternative, but are not responsible for any delays or additional expenses incurred.

Privacy Policy and Data Protection:
Smoky Bear Shuttle respects your privacy. All personal information is handled in accordance with applicable privacy laws and is not shared with third parties, except as necessary for the completion of the service.

Payment Processing:
We require full payment at the time of booking to confirm your reservation. Smoky Bear Shuttle is not responsible for any issues related to your credit card information, including but not limited to unauthorized charges, bank errors, or transaction processing failures. By providing your payment information, you agree that all transactions are final and subject to our cancellation and refund policies.

Additional Fees:
Additional fees may apply for late cancellations, changes to your reservation, excessive waiting time, or if you require services outside of the original booking scope. These fees will be communicated at the time of booking and are subject to change.

Passenger Responsibility:
It is the passenger’s responsibility to confirm the correct pick-up location and time. Any failure to do so may result in a missed pick-up or additional charges.

Dispute Resolution:
By booking with Smoky Bear Shuttle, you agree to resolve any disputes through binding mediation or arbitration, conducted in Sevierville, Tennessee. You agree that any legal action related to your service experience must first go through mediation or arbitration, rather than a formal lawsuit. By booking with us, you and your entire party agree not to dispute any transactions made with Smoky Bear Shuttle, and you waive the right to initiate a lawsuit for any service-related issues.

Health and Safety Clause:
By booking with Smoky Bear Shuttle, the passenger and their entire party acknowledge and agree that they are voluntarily choosing to participate in transportation services provided by Smoky Bear Shuttle. The passenger agrees that Smoky Bear Shuttle is not liable for any illness or health-related issues that may arise before, during, or after the ride.

If a passenger feels ill or exhibits symptoms of illness (such as fever, cough, vomiting, or other contagious conditions) prior to or during the ride, they agree to inform Smoky Bear Shuttle immediately. Smoky Bear Shuttle reserves the right to refuse service to any passenger showing signs of illness to protect the health and safety of other passengers and staff.

By choosing to travel with Smoky Bear Shuttle, passengers acknowledge that they assume full responsibility for any health-related risks. Smoky Bear Shuttle is not responsible for any illness or injury sustained during transportation, and passengers agree to release Smoky Bear Shuttle from any liability associated with illness.

Loss or Stolen Items:
Smoky Bear Shuttle is not responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged items left behind on the vehicle. If you misplace an item during your ride, Smoky Bear Shuttle will make reasonable efforts to locate it. We will hold lost items for one week. After that time, items will be disposed of unless the passenger contacts us to arrange retrieval.

If the passenger requests the return of lost items, they are responsible for paying the shipping and handling fees associated with returning the items.

Service Scope:
This policy applies to all services provided by Smoky Bear Shuttle and any affiliates or vendors involved in the service process.

• Delays due to unforeseen traffic conditions are possible.

• While we strive to adhere to schedules, we appreciate your understanding in the event of unavoidable delays.

• We reserve the right to substitute the booked vehicle with an equivalent or upgraded model in case of unforeseen circumstances.

• Additional stops during the journey may incur extra charges. Please specify any additional stops at the time of booking.

• Clients are expected to maintain cleanliness within the vehicle.

• Private rides are not guaranteed; Please note that shuttle rides are not guaranteed to be private, and may include other passengers. No assumption of a private ride should be made unless specifically booked as such. Additional fees may apply for exclusive private rides.

• Our drivers provide professional and courteous service & any inappropriate, rude or aggressive behavior towards the driver may result in immediate termination of the service without refund.

• We are not liable for any failure or delay in providing services due to circumstances beyond our control, such as natural disasters, strikes, or government regulations and restrictions

• While we aim to provide five-star service with punctuality as a priority, it is important to note that unforeseen traffic conditions may impact our arrival time.

• We explicitly state that we are not responsible for delays caused by traffic conditions, and clients should consider this when planning their journeys, especially when time-sensitive, such as catching a flight.

• Fees will be charged for any incidents of vomiting in the vehicles or damage to the van.

• Clients are fully responsible for any fees and costs associated with the cleaning and repairing of the vehicles, resulting from any damage or incidents during the course of the service resulting from such occurrences.

*Disclaimer:*

• We are not affiliated with Uber or Lyft. As a private company, we operate independently and are governed by our own policies. Clients are kindly reminded that our services and policies may differ from those of other ride-sharing platforms. We encourage clients to familiarize themselves with our specific terms and conditions outlined in this policy document. By engaging our services, clients acknowledge and agree to adhere to these policies. We reserve the right to update and change these policies as necessary with out notice and at our discretion. 

Terms and Conditions for Smoky Bear Shuttle Services

Agreement to Terms
By booking with Smoky Bear Shuttle, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to abide by all Terms of Service, Policies, and Conditions set forth by Smoky Bear Shuttle.

You further affirm that you have the authority to act on behalf of your entire party or group, and that your acceptance of these terms applies to all individuals included in the booking. Your act of booking serves as agreement to these terms for yourself and all members of your party.

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