Anyone who is planning a big night out this week to celebrate the new year is being urged to follow some simple steps to ensure they stay safe when it comes to using taxis.
The licening team at East Ridingof Yorkshie Council are hoping party goers will follow some simple steps to ensure they get home after their night out.
Tips from the council include, carrying a number of a trusted private hire company and also where possible to avoid travelling alone.
Tips to help you stay safe this New Year’s Eve
- Only Hackney Carriage cabs can be hailed in the street or on a taxi rank and they should carry a plate on the back of the vehicle – East Riding licensed vehicles display white oval door stickers and have a top light saying “TAXI”
- Private hire vehicles must always be booked in advance and display a plate on the back of the vehicle – East Riding licensed vehicles have yellow oval stickers on the front passenger doors saying “pre-booked only”
- All licensed drivers should have a driver’s identity badge issued by the relevant council, which should be prominently displayed at all times
- Carry a telephone number of a trusted, licensed taxi or private hire company
- If possible, book a taxi or mini-cab in advance and ask for the name of the driver, the make and colour of the car
- Confirm the details with the driver when the vehicle 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
- 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 the taxi and make sure it’s a legitimate vehicle – friends should stick together and make sure everyone gets home safely
- Do not walk home if you’ve consumed too much alcohol as this can make you vulnerable – ask yourself will you be safe? Are you in control? Have you let someone know what you are doing and where you are going?
