Unlicensed Vehicle Warning For Racegoers

People looking to get to the races in style this summer are being urged to make sure the vehicle they hire is licensed correctly.

While stretch limousines remain popular, there is a growing trend of people looking to book luxury cars such as Mercedes, Rolls Royces and Porsches to get them to events in style.

Operators of all private hire vehicles, including limousines and luxury cars, must abide by the correct licensing rules and standards and with Ladies’ Day at Beverley Racecourse on the horizon, licensing officers at East Riding of Yorkshire Council want people to remember the day for the right reason.

Operating any private hire vehicle without the correct licence is a criminal offence with rogue operators facing a maximum fine of £1,000 while operating or driving without the required licence may also invalidate any insurance.

Licensing officers will again be at the racecourse on Ladies Day carrying out spot checks on vehicles but are urging people to booking luxury cars and stretch limousines to check they are properly licensed before confirming the booking.

Last year at Ladies Day, licensing officers found one luxury car company operating with an unlicensed driver as well as four rickshaws operating illegally.

Councillor Shaun Horton, portfolio holder for community involvement and local partnerships at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “Ladies Day at Beverley Racecourse is one of the most eagerly anticipated events of the local racing season and those attending want to arrive in style.

“Our message is don’t swap style for safety when you book limousines or luxury vehicles and make sure the event is memorable for the right reasons.

“I would like to stress that most operators conduct their business in a safe fashion and the number of rogue traders is very small but people should be alert to companies offering huge reductions in costs and who are working for cash only.

“All licensed drivers should be happy to provide their licence, plate and drivers badge, if requested.”

Anyone who would like more information should go to www.eastriding.gov.uk or email
taxi.hub@eastriding.gov.uk to check if a vehicle, driver or operator holds a licence with the council.