Ensure you get in a licensed taxi this festive season
Last updated: 7/12/2023
If you’re using a taxi over the festive period in Rushcliffe always ensure it’s a black licensed hackney carriage or licensed private hire operator.
That’s the message from Rushcliffe Borough Council who are advising residents and visitors in the Borough to never get into a vehicle unless you have pre-booked it through a legitimate operator unless it is a Black Rushcliffe hackney cab.
Remember as we near Christmas and the New Year, taxis are harder to find so booking early is a must.
Using a licensed taxi cab by pre-booking your ride home or using a recognised taxi rank means that the vehicle will have met specified standards, the driver is a fit and proper person to drive you home and that the vehicle is roadworthy and insured.
Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Environment and Safety Cllr Rob Inglis joined licensed operators NG11 Cars, Yellow Cars, Nottingham Cars, and DG Cars to discuss residents’ safety and how they can be assured they are using a licensed vehicle.
He said: “To ensure you get home safely after a night out, always pre-book your journey home with a reputable local licensed firm for collection at a prearranged time and location.
“If you haven’t booked your taxi then use a Rushcliffe Hackney cab which are black with Red Licence Plates on the front and rear of the vehicle and on the front doors and can be found at recognised taxi ranks in central West Bridgford.
"Don't be tempted to jump into a private hire taxi without pre-booking it. Rogue, unlicensed drivers are known to impersonate private hire drivers and the risks with that are very clear.
“Licensed drivers will commit offences, including no insurance, if they pick you up without booking. Stay safe and always pre-book your ride or use a recognised taxi rank.
“If you get into a taxi that you haven’t pre-booked no record of the journey exists, and you’re not insured if an accident occurs and suffer injury.
“Remember if it’s not booked or a licensed taxi, you’re in a stranger’s car”.
All licensed drivers can be identified by photographic identity badges that must be worn at all times and ensure you do ask to see it before getting into the vehicle.
Rushcliffe Hackney carriages are built specially to carry disabled passengers and some Private Hire companies have similar vehicles for hire.
Visit www.rushcliffe.gov.uk/taxi for a list of wheelchair accessible vehicles and private hire companies who can provide a vehicle.