How To Spot Illegal Taxi or Private Hire Drivers and Protect Yourself
Getting a taxi home after a night of revelry is one of the quickest and easiest ways for people to get home safely. The taxi and private hire trade are one of the most regulated industries in the UK. Drivers must have an Enhanced DBS Check carried out, with a check of both barred lists. Any information relating to sexual assault or related crimes means that a driver cannot gain a licence.
As of last year, all drivers are now also expected to have completed comprehensive safeguarding training. This training has been brought in to help drivers identify those that have been targeted by criminals but also how to support passengers in need of assistance.
As a profession, criminals often try and pose as taxi or private hire drivers due to the level of trust placed in them and the high standards that they are held to. These criminals then use this position to victimise their passengers. Crimes reported range from extortion to sexual assault.
In recent years, there have been numerous reports about a spike in the number of crimes being carried out by taxi or private hire drivers. But it's important to note, that these statistics also include individuals who have posed as a legitimate taxi or private hire driver to gain the victim's confidence.
There are a number of things you can look out for when getting a cab that can help you spot a fake and protect yourself.
How to Spot a Fake
No Visible Licence
Most local authorities stipulate licensed drivers must display either their licence or an issued ID badge in their vehicle at all times. But this is only a general rule. It isn’t the case everywhere, so it isn’t necessarily an immediate red flag.
However, in the areas where it isn’t a requirement, drivers must have a licence or ID on their person. They must then present it to any passenger, police or enforcement officer that requests to see it. Because of this, most drivers opt to visibly display it anyway.
Signage
Taxi and private hire laws have to display a variety of signs and information in their vehicle at all times as part of their licensing conditions. If you’re approached by someone claiming to be a driver but there isn’t clear signage, they’re likely not a licensed driver. There are a few different signs you should look out for.
All licensed vehicles must display details of their licensing authority on the exterior of the vehicle. This information can vary depending on who the licensing authority is but passengers should be able to clearly identify which council have licensed the vehicle.
Even though the smoking ban has been in place for several years, it is still a requirement for taxi and private hire vehicles to display ‘No Smoking’ signage. Failure to do so can land them a £200 fine. If you're approached by a vehicle without these signs it’s best to be wary.
Under the most recent guidance, all taxis and private hire vehicles must display information that explains how passengers can lodge a complaint with their licensing authority.
Although it is not a requirement, private hire vehicles commonly have details of their operator advertised on the exterior. This is something extra to be aware of when pre-booking a cab with a company you know.
Vehicle Condition
Taxi and private hire vehicles are held to a higher standard than vehicles used for personal use. Local authorities have specific rules in place governing the age and appearance of the vehicle but this can vary.
Most authorities state that the vehicle used should be no more than 12 years old from the data of a license being issued. Be suspicious of any driver in a vehicle older than this purporting to be a licensed driver.
Vehicles also need to be of a certain size. This means a licensed driver must have an estate, saloon or larger vehicle to be licensed. Hatchbacks are nearly always inappropriate for taxi or private hire licensing.
There are also rules in place regarding the emissions of vehicles, so hybrid vehicles are becoming far more common in the industry. If you’re approached by someone with an old banger, giving off loads of exhaust fumes it's best to stay away.
Unsure of the area
Now taxi drivers can’t be expected to know where every potential passenger lives but there are knowledge standards in place. Local authorities make new taxi or private hire drivers complete knowledge tests of the local areas as part of their licensing conditions. If your driver seems completely unaware of where to go then it could be a sign that they are driving illegally.
Reporting Fake Drivers
UK Government has a page dedicated to reporting unlicensed drivers. If you believe you have been approached or have used an unlicensed cab, it’s vital that you make them aware. You can report unlicensed drivers here.
If you have been the victim of a crime at the hands of an unlicensed cab driver it's important that you contact the police. You can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 to report a crime. If you are in immediate danger, contact the police by dialling 999.