Taxi Passenger Safety
Staying Safe: Guidance for Passengers
Boston Borough Council issues licences for both Hackney Carriage (Taxis) and Private Hire Vehicles.
The differences between these two types of vehicles are:-
Element | Hackney Carriage vehicles | Private Hire Vehicles |
---|---|---|
Can be hailed in the street | Yes | No |
Can stand and be hired at a Taxi Rank | Yes | No |
Can be pre-booked | Yes | Yes |
Must display a taximeter | Yes | No |
Must work for a Private Hire Operator | No | Yes |
Has to display a top sign | Yes | No |
Has to display a "For Hire" sign in the front bottom left-hand side of the windscreen | Yes | No |
Colour of Licence plate displayed on the rear of the vehicle (below the back window) | White | Yellow |
When using a private hire vehicle (pre-booked), passengers should always:-
- Book their journey with a Private Hire Operator;
- Confirm their booking with the driver when he/she arrives;
- Note the licence number (this can be found on the plate located on the rear of the vehicle)
- Sit in the back, behind the driver;
- Let a third party know details of their journey
When using a taxi, passengers should where possible:-
- Use a taxi rank
The Passenger Information Leaflet contains more details.