Safety first
Taxi transportation is one of the most common forms used to get from one location of a city to another. This is due to several reasons including affordability and flexibility. However, not every cab which drives through the streets is safe and should be used. This especially applies to ones that can be hailed from the sidewalk. Here are some expert tips on staying safe when traveling provided by a professional, licensed, local taxi company.
Pre-book in advance from a licensed company
One of the ways to ensure that the cab of your choice is safe is to pre-book it by phone from a professional local taxi company. When booking the transport service ask the operator to give you the name of the driver, the make, and color of the car and if possible their license plate.
When the cab arrives
When a cab stops in front of you verify that it is the one you have booked. Ask the driver about who they are to collect ie if they know your name. Also, check the make and color of the car. Does it fit the description you were given? Ask the driver about their name. Also, check if the vehicle has a license plate that matches the one you were given and that it is up to date. Also, check if the car has an illuminated taxi sign on the roof.
During the trip
Sit in the back right behind the driver. Be mindful not to give away personal details and be alert for any suspicious activities or changes. Trust your instinct- if you sense that something is wrong, ask the driver to stop in a busy place and get out. If they refuse, use your mobile to call the police and alert pedestrians and other drivers by waving or calling through the window.
Using a taxi to get around the city or to the airport can be dangerous if the vehicle in question is not licensed and certified. There are signs which indicate that the vehicle is illegal. These include the lack of a license plate which is up to date or one which has expired. A good way to avoid such situations is to contact and pre-book a service at a professional, licensed local taxi company. An example of one such contractor is Tejedor Taxi Service INC in East Hampton, NY.