Taxis have become very popular for public transportation needs. However, with every virtue there is a vice. This article does not focus only on taxi crimes committed by taxi drivers, but on crimes committed by passengers with malicious intent.
It would be completely unfair and critical if it only singled out taxi drivers or passengers as criminals. Below are some safety tips that both parties can consider to stay safe.
Passenger Safety Tips
1. Planning and Advance Reservation
Pre-planning and pre-booking are two important things that you can do to avoid any kind of unfortunate circumstances. Most taxi companies have their own websites and have made it convenient and safe to book your taxi before your trip.
2. Learn about local taxi rules
Taxi rules vary from city to city. A taxi driver in New York cannot charge any extra for his luggage. Therefore, before hiring, find out about the city’s taxi rules to avoid being cheated.
3. Find out about your service provider and taxi driver
When booking a taxi for yourself, make a note of details such as the taxi registration number and the name of the taxi company. Don’t be reluctant to ask the taxi driver for his license and ID card to verify your association with the taxi company. This procedure is legal and will help you file a claim if necessary or recover things lost during your trip.
4. Pay extra attention
If you’re new to the area, booking a taxi can make your journey easier, but not always. Your taxi driver to cheat you could take a long route. To avoid this type of situation, always carry a map of the city and a pencil that will come in handy to mark your route.
Safety tips for driving taxis
It would be unfair to hold only taxi drivers responsible for taxi crimes. If a taxi driver is having a bad day, he may be robbed and lose all his hard-earned money. But being careful can avoid such unexpected incidents.
1. Make frequent cash deliveries
It is always advisable to carry fewer amounts with you and make frequent cash deliveries. But make sure you always carry some change. Following this will save you from losing your hard earned money.
2. Be Aware and Alert
Since taxi drivers work alone all the time, even at night, it is mandatory that they are vigilant and alert. A taxi driver should know the city routes very well, as this is useful when traveling in crime-prone areas. Taxi drivers must be more vigilant during night shifts. Minimize the risk by avoiding the dangerous roads of the city.
3. Keep eye contact with your rate
When a passenger arrives, always try to maintain eye contact from the moment the passenger enters the taxi. Give a simple message that you are confident and cannot be messed with. It communicates to the passenger that you can recognize him if he considers committing some type of crime. Avoid telling a customer that he had a good shift.
4. Communicate well with the passenger
Communicate well with the passenger and inform them of the planned route and estimated fare. This will reduce the risk of any disputes at the end of the trip.
* If you find yourself in danger, do not confront. Instead, try to remember the characteristics of your passenger, along with the conversations you had and other details. This will help in proper police investigation should such an unpleasant incident occur.