Private Hire

A council has warned people not to get into PHVs unless they are licensed locally after several out-of-town vehicles failed spot checks for safety.

No taxi driver likes telling their insurer they’ve had a bump and it’s their fault. The cost of repairs could run into hundreds or thousands of pounds, even for a relatively minor scrape, and could affect their taxi insurance premiums.

Differences in taxi licensing between authorities continue to cause confusion for taxi drivers and passengers, especially in more remote areas.

At Telford magistrates Court in May, Riaz pleaded guilty to plying for hire and driving without valid insurance.

This summer’s riots saw violence across the country, and taxi and PHV drivers targeted because of their occupation.

Private hire drivers on Merseyside secured a victory for drivers nationally when a court ruled in their favour that fares outside the capital should not be subject to VAT.

Staff at broadcaster GB News are worried over cost-cutting plans to stop paying for taxis to and from its London studios, which they believe will put people at risk.

Rogue PHV drivers hoped to take advantage of a licensing loophole by registering with one council and operating out of the area.

Many people still do not recognise the danger of using a mobile phone while driving, and for professionals such as taxi drivers, the consequences can be severe.

Anyone who has failed to hail a cab in the Italian capital is not alone – they are among 1.3 million passengers a month who don’t have any joy either.

Violent and abusive customers are stopping taxi drivers working late shifts and it is affecting a town centre’s economy.

Keeping taxis and PHVs in good condition reduces the likelihood of damage and injury, as well as keeping vehicles on the road longer.