Warning over the dangers of using unlicensed taxis
Derbyshire Police are warning of the dangers of getting into unlicensed taxis over Christmas and New Year.
People are being reminded to make sure they only use vehicles licensed by Derby City Council.
There are two types of licensed taxis currently operating in the city: Hackney carriages are allowed to ply for hire by the side of the road and can be flagged down by customers; in Derby these are London-style cabs. Private hire cars are those which are normally ordered by telephone and cannot pick up passengers at random.
Detective Sergeant Rick Crowther is part of Operation Diamond, a specialist team of officers who work to reduce sexual and violent crimes. The team is running a campaign this month to help people stay safe over the party season. He said: “We know that taxis will be in high demand at this time of the year and there could be some unscrupulous people who will take advantage of that.
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“Anyone not properly licensed as a taxi driver will not be covered by insurance to carry fare paying passengers and can demand any amount of money as a fare.”
DS Crowther also reminded people to plan their journey home in advance. He said: “When planning a night out, think about how you’re going to get home. Arrange to travel home with a friend and ring ahead to book a taxi.
“Make sure before you get into a car that it has a licensing plate on the back and the driver has both a personal badge and a meter.”
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