Gwynedd Council is warning people to be wary of bogus taxi drivers as they head out to celebrate Christmas and the New Year.
As revellers enjoy the festivities in Gwynedd’s bars and restaurants, or visit friends and family, the last thing on their mind may be how they are going to get home. But Gwynedd Council’s Licensing Service is urging people to make sure they used legitimate and licensed taxis.
The main things to bear in mind when taking a taxi ride home, are:
- Only Hackney carriage cabs can be hailed in the street. These cars should carry a blue plate on the front and back
- Private hire cabs should be booked beforehand and display a yellow plate on the front and back.
- There is a half moon shaped symbol on the car doors
- All licensed drivers should have Gwynedd Council driver’s identity badge
Check these details before getting into a taxi. An unlicensed car and driver have not been vetted by the Council and may not be insured.
Bob Taylor, Gwynedd Council’s Licensing Enforcement Officer, said: “I would warn anyone getting into a taxi to make sure the car and driver have all the correct Gwynedd Council licence plates and badges.
“Getting into an unlicensed cab is essentially the same as taking a lift from a stranger, people should remember to stay safe especially if they are under the influence of alcohol.
“Bogus drivers may also be undercutting legitimate taxi businesses.”
Other top tips to stay safe when you are out and about this Christmas are:
- Carry a telephone number of a trusted, licensed taxi company with you
- If possible, book a taxi or minicab in advance. Ask for the driver’s name and for the make and colour of the car
- Confirm the details with the driver when the taxi arrives, is it the car you ordered?
- If you are ordering a taxi from a public place, try not to let anyone overhear your name and address – anyone could pretend to be your taxi
- If you are out with friends, make sure everyone has a way of getting home. If someone in your group has had too much to drink, accompany them to their taxi and make sure it is a legitimate cab
- Sharing a taxi with friends is always a good idea
If you have any concerns about illegitimate taxis operating Gwynedd, contact Bob Taylor, Gwynedd Council’s Licensing Enforcement Officer on 01286 679923 or contact the police on 0845 607 1001/1002.
