Within the boundary of the local authority (e.g. Warwick Arts Centre to Earlsdon) a taxi (hackney carriage) driver cannot refuse to take you, irrespective of whether the journey is short, unless they have a ‘reasonable excuse’ for doing so e.g. if a potential passenger is drunk, is being threatening/abusive or refuses
Can a London taxi refuse to take you?
A driver of a taxi (or hackney carriage) can only refuse to carry passengers within a controlled district if he has reasonable excuse to do so. What constitutes “reasonable excuse” is ultimately a matter for a court of law to determine.
Can a black taxi refuse a fare?
Taxi drivers are within their rights to refuse a fair – but only if they have a “reasonable excuse” or the passenger wants to travel outside of the controlled district.
Can a hackney carriage be pre-booked?
Hackney carriages can undertake pre-booked work. Private hire vehicles can only undertake pre-booked work through a licensed operator.
Is a hackney carriage public transport?
Hackney carriages (or “taxis”) are public transport vehicles which are licensed to “ply for hire”. They can: carry passengers for hire or reward; be hailed by prospective passengers in the street; and.
Can you flag down a London taxi?
You are not allowed to flag down a private hire vehicle. In some towns and cities, you can take a private hire vehicle without booking in advance, but only from a designated taxi rank.
Can you flag down a taxi UK?
You can flag them down in the street
Stand in a suitable place beside the road and put your hand out. Look for the orange taxi sign above the windscreen, the taxi is only available if this sign is lit up.
Is not paying a taxi fare a crime?
If a passenger refuses to pay a taxi fare or leaves the vehicle without paying then this is theft and should be reported by calling 999.
Can you flag down a black cab in London?
Look for a black cab with its For Hire light on, flag it down and tell the driver where you would like to go. Having said that, given the traffic in central London you may find taxis to be budget-destroying, as the meter will continue to tick over as the car inches along on its way.
What can a taxi driver do if you don’t pay?
They record your name for “refuse service” lists. They attempt to call the police to see if you actually CAN pay, and just aren’t. You’ll either get a ticket or another free ride… which you don’t want.
What must a hackney carriage charge for a journey?
The minimum taxi fare is £2.80 and it rises in 24p increments for each additional 176 yards. As a guide to what your journey may cost, the first mile will be £4 and each subsequent mile will be £2.40. There are extra charges where there’s more than one passenger, and for telephone pre-bookings.
How long can you stop in a taxi rank?
Stopping and waiting
Drivers should be aware that: Taxis and private hire vehicles can only stop as long as is necessary for the customer to get in or out of the vehicle.
What is the difference between a taxi and a hackney?
Hackneys can:
They cannot be hailed down or pick up passengers waiting at taxi ranks. The exception is Local Area Hackneys, which are specially licenced to operate in rural communities and can use an approved hackney stand. Arrange prices in advance. They do not have to use a taximeter and there is no maximum fare.
How do I complain about a hackney carriage?
For comments or complaints about drivers or operators please use the customer form or call 0343 222 4000 (call charges may apply).
When can a private hire or hackney carriage driver refuse to carry a passengers assistance dog?
The main reasons a hackney carriage or private hire vehicle driver may wish to apply for a medical exemption are: if they have a condition such as severe asthma, that is aggravated by contact with dogs; if they are allergic to dogs; or. if they have an acute phobia to dogs.
Why do taxis say hackney carriage?
Taxis in the city of London were initially called hackneys. The word itself came from “hacquenee” a Norman French word, which was used to mean a horse could be hired. In fact, the term is still there today, most people, especially the older generation, always call the taxis hackney cabs.
Is it illegal to shout taxi?
If you see that the light is on (you’ll know if it is, it’s a bright yellow light), then to hail the cab simply stand on the side of the pavement and extend your arm outward. There’s no need to shout “taxi” and indeed, it’s actually illegal to shout “taxi” whilst trying to hail a cab.
Can you just hail a cab in London?
London’s official taxis, black cabs can be hailed in the street or at designated ranks located in prominent places, including many train, Tube and bus stations. They can also be booked through the Gett app and by phone. If the yellow taxi sign on the front is illuminated, the cab is available for hire.
Can taxi drivers lock you in?
As to the question part, yes, they are allowed to lock the doors. In fact many modern vehicles will lock the doors automatically when the vehicle is placed in gear. The driver may keep the door locked while accepting payment, but that is usually mere oversight.
Can taxi drivers touch their phone?
All drivers in London can use hands-free satnavs and cradle devices legally. The advice is clear on the Government’s THINK! website about how to ensure you do this within the law. The website address is think.direct.gov.uk.
Is it rude to sit in the back of a taxi?
In the United States, it is normal to take the back seat of a taxi, even if you are traveling alone. Most likely, the only time you would sit in the front would be if you are traveling with so many people (like a family trip) that not everyone can fit in the back. Other than that, you always sit in the back.