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.
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 roadworthy and insured.
Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Executive Manager for Neighbourhoods Dave Banks 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 and can be found at recognised taxi ranks.
“Never get into a private hire taxi without pre-booking as you will not be covered by the driver’s insurance meaning the driver may be committing an offence by picking you up, leading to the loss of his or her licence.”
All licensed drivers can be identified by photographic identity badges that must be worn at all times.
All 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/taxis/ for a list of wheelchair accessible vehicles and private hire companies who can provide a vehicle.