As the holiday season approaches, East Riding of Yorkshire Council is urging residents to prioritize safety by using only licensed taxis and avoiding unverified services promoted on social media.
Council’s Warning on Unlicensed Taxis
Councillor Lyn Healing, cabinet member for communities and public protection, expressed concern about the rise in unlicensed taxi services during this time of year. “It’s crucial to take extra precautions to stay safe,” she emphasized.
The council strongly advises against booking rides through social media platforms and encourages residents to report any suspicious services to the council’s licensing team.
Safety Measures for Licensed Taxis
Licensed taxis in the East Riding are equipped with safety features such as dashcams and CCTV to ensure passenger security. Additionally, taxi marshals will be stationed at Beverley’s Saturday Market during peak holiday hours:
- December 20: 8:00 PM – 3:00 AM
- December 21: 8:00 PM – 3:00 AM
- New Year’s Eve: 10:00 PM – 3:00 AM
Tips for Safe Taxi Travel
To ensure a safe and legal ride, East Riding of Yorkshire Council recommends the following:
- Verify Licensing: Ensure the taxi or private hire vehicle is licensed before starting your journey.
- Use Hackney Carriages for Immediate Hire: Only East Riding-licensed Hackney Carriage cabs can be hailed on the street or at taxi ranks. They must display a plate on the back of the vehicle.
- Avoid Non-Local Vehicles: Vehicles licensed outside East Riding cannot lawfully accept immediate hires in the area. Using these services may invalidate insurance and compromise safety.
- Pre-Book Private Hire Vehicles: Private hire cars must be booked in advance and will display a plate at the back of the vehicle.
Source: BBC
