10/12/2019
🚖 Are you taxi safe?
▶️ HACKNEY CARRIAGE vehicles can be found at ranks around Fenland and they can be hailed in the street. These vehicles have a roof light with the word TAXI on them. They are fitted with an taximeter (fare meter) and cannot charge more than the fare displayed on the meter. Hackney carriage vehicles display a white rear licence plate with the licence number, expiry date and maximum number of passengers.
▶️ PRIVATE HIRE vehicles are public transport vehicles but they cannot ply for hire or stand in a rank. They must be pre-booked with a private hire operator. Private hire vehicles display a yellow rear licence plate with the licence number, expiry date and maximum number of passengers.
🔍 Licensed vehicles will also display an internal vehicle licence badge. Licensed drivers will also wear an identity badge (or will display one) which will show the driver’s licence number and licensing authority details.
TOP 🔟 TIPS TO STAY TAXI SAFE 👇
✅ Always use a licensed hackney carriage or a licensed private hire vehicle.
✅ Book your private hire journey by phone or in a taxi office. If possible pre-book your return journey before going out.
✅ Let a third party know the details of your journey.
✅ Never approach or accept a journey from a private hire driver off the street. Only taxis (hackney carriages) are allowed to pick up customers off the street.
✅ When your booked private hire arrives, make sure the driver can confirm your name and your destination. Check this before you get in the vehicle.
✅ Check the vehicle has a rear licence plate and an internal licence plate. Make a note of the licence number, or take a photo of it. A driver will not mind you doing this for your own peace of mind. If he/she does challenge you, refuse to travel with them.
✅ Check the driver's photo ID. If the driver is unable to show you a badge do not get in the vehicle.
✅ Always sit in the back behind the driver.
✅ Never share a taxi with a stranger.
✅ If you are drunk and on your own consider calling a family member and ask them to pick you up.
🗨️ We will investigate all complaints from the public about drivers and vehicles. To assist us, please make a note of the driver’s badge number or the vehicle plate number, and the time, date and place of the incident. You can make a complaint via:
💻 www.fenland.gov.uk/licensingcomplaint
📱 01354 654321 or
📩 [email protected]
