You can tell the difference between a Hackney carriage (taxi) and a private hire vehicle quite easily. Hackney carriages have an illuminated sign on their roof. They also have a predominantly white body and black boot and bonnet or advertising, known as a full corporate body wrap.
Can I hail/flag down a Hackney carriage in the street?
Yes, unlike private hire vehicles which are required to be booked in advance with a private hire operator. You can hail or flag a Hackney Carriages down in the street. They can also be found at taxi ranks.
Taxi ranks are provided where a demand has been identified, such as outside large establishments like hospitals, bus and rail stations, or at locations where the public or taxi associations have suggested they would be useful.
The main consideration in the location of taxi ranks is to make sure they can be safely accommodated without conflicting with other kerbside demands. Ranks can be operational for 24 hours or part time, such as evening only.
How many passengers will they carry?
Hackney carriage saloon vehicles can carry a maximum of four passengers, although Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs) can take more. The rear licence plate will state how many passengers that particular vehicle can carry.
Will they carry passengers who use wheelchairs?
The majority of Hackney carriages are able to transport wheelchair users. However, saloon vehicles licensed as a Hackney carriage do not have this capability but are still capable of carrying passengers with a range of disabilities and wheelchair users who can transfer. Unless the driver of the vehicle has a medical exemption certificate, they must not refuse to carry wheelchair users or assistance dogs.
How will the fare be calculated and how do I know how much to pay?
Each Hackney carriage is fitted with a calibrated meter which can be seen in the cab of the vehicle. A table of fares is displayed inside each vehicle. The meters are automatically set to change to the appropriate set of charges i.e. bank holidays, night time.
What about safeguards?
All drivers licensed by the taxi and private hire licensing section have been fully vetted, including the completion of a Criminal Records Bureau disclosure form. All vehicles have undergone and passed stringent tests for roadworthiness to comply with the current licensing conditions before a licence is issued. If you have any concerns do not get into the vehicle. Hackney carriage drivers will not be offended if you ring home to say you are on your way and give the number of the taxi.
By following the guidelines set out in the Suzy Lamplugh Trust guidance sheet you can go out and enjoy yourself knowing that you won’t be taking any unnecessary risks.
What do I do if I have a complaint?
If you are unfortunate enough to have cause for complaint about a Leeds City Council Licence holder you may choose to take up your complaint with the driver directly. Alternatively you can take note of the drivers name and badge number, vehicle plate number and/or vehicle registration number and contact the licensing enforcement team.
Some complaints are about poor customer service and we encourage the taxi associations to investigate and resolve the problem, which they do on a large number of occasions, and also take disciplinary action.
Where the complaint is about clear dishonesty, abusive, discriminatory or inappropriate behaviour, or where a crime is alleged, Leeds City Council will record and deal with that complaint.