Revellers travelling home by taxi after a night out are being urged to check that the taxi or private hire vehicle they use is operating legally and has been issued with a licence by the local licensing authority.
Licensed taxis and private hire vehicles are generally a safe way to travel because they are regularly tested and are required to meet minimum safety standards by the local licensing authority, which for the St Albans City and District is St Albans City and District Council. Checks that the vehicle is properly insured will have also been made. The drivers will have also undergone medical and criminal record checks.
Licensed taxis can be hired immediately from a rank or hailed down, while private hire vehicles must be booked through a licensed operator.
It is easy to spot whether a vehicle is licensed or not as they will normally display a licence plate, either on the front or rear of the vehicle, which will include the licensing authority, the licence number and the vehicle registration number. The driver will also wear, or have on display, an identity badge, which will show their licence number and details of the local licensing authority.
There are some simple tips to follow to ensure that journeys by cab are as safe as possible. Passengers should sit in the back of the vehicle, keep their mobile phone where it is easily accessible and make a note of the number plate and driver’s licence number and, if uneasy, text them to a friend or family member. They should not use a cab if the driver appears to be under the influence of alcohol or does not seem to know the local area or the vehicle is in a state of disrepair.
Cllr Anthony Rowlands, who is also Portfolio Holder for Community Engagement and Support, said: “If you are travelling by cab, then take steps to ensure that it has been licensed to operate. The local licensing authority checks that licensed vehicles meet safety standards and are also properly insured in case of road accidents.”
If passengers have any concerns about a cab driver or the state of a vehicle they should report these to these to the local licensing authority. In the case of vehicles licensed by St Albans City and District Council they can call 01727 819453.