Published on:
09
December 2011
A warning to guard against falling victim to unlicensed taxi and private hire vehicles has been issued by Clackmannanshire Council as shoppers and partygoers are urged to stay safe over the festive season.
The Council's Licensing Team is raising awareness of this particular issue in order to protect the public, as well as safeguarding the interests of legitimate members of the taxi and private hire trade.
All official taxis and private hire drivers are subject to thorough background checks as part of the licensing process and vehicles are tested to ensure that they are safe and fit to transport members of the public.
Councillor John Biggam, Convenor of the Council's Regulatory Committee, said; "This is the season to be jolly, but it is also a time of year when we need to keep our wits about us. As well as reinforcing the don't drink and drive message, we are also keen to ensure that people only use licensed taxis and private hire vehicles to get to and from festive events.
"Just as you would think twice about getting into a stranger's car, we would urge you always to book your taxi or private hire car through a known and reputable company, rather than use an unlicensed service. Also book it in advance or keep a list of telephone numbers of reputable firms in your mobile phone."
Passengers are also reminded that over Christmas and New Year taxi fares operate at a slightly higher rate, normally between 24-27 December and from 31 December to 3 January. Customers should check the price of a journey with operators at the time of booking.
The Licensing Team would like to wish everyone a safe and Merry Christmas.