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If you are unsure of how to get home safely at night when in UK, then here is a simple guide that will offer a couple of ways to get a safe taxi ride home?
Hackney carriage taxi
A hackney carriage, also known as a traditional taxi or a black cab, is a type of taxi that can be hailed on the street or at a taxi stand and can also be pre-booked. They are typically larger vehicles that are licensed to operate in specific areas, and they are often equipped with a meter to calculate the fare based on distance and time travelled.
To use a hackney carriage taxi, simply hail one on the street by waving your hand or looking for a taxi stand and waiting in line. If you prefer, you can also pre-book a taxi by making a call to a taxi company or using a taxi app for London. When the taxi arrives, let the driver know your destination, and they will take you there. The fare is calculated using a meter, and payment can usually be made in cash or with a credit card.
It’s important to note that hackney carriage taxis are regulated by local authorities and they have to adhere to strict standards regarding vehicle maintenance, driver training, and customer service. This makes them a safe and reliable mode of transportation for travellers.
Minicab or private booked taxi
Minicab can be hired on-demand or pre-booked. Unlike traditional black cabs, minicabs are private hire vehicles and must be booked in advance. Minicabs are generally less expensive than black cabs and are often more convenient for short trips.
You can book minicabs by phone or online or use a taxi app. You can also hail a minicab on the street, but this is less common as most minicabs must be pre-booked. Once you have booked a minicab, you’ll receive confirmation of the booking, and the driver’s details. The driver will then pick you up at the designated location and take you to your destination.
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Safe taxi schemes for the UK students
The Safe Taxi scheme in many UK universities is designed to provide students with a safe and secure mode of transportation late at night. The scheme is usually operated by the universities themselves or in partnership with local taxi companies. The main objective of the scheme is to reduce the risk of students being subjected to crime or harm while traveling during unsociable hours.
Students are given access to a pre-approved list of licensed taxi companies and drivers. The taxis used under the scheme are equipped with GPS tracking systems and security cameras, which provide an extra layer of safety for the students. The drivers of these taxis undergo thorough background checks and are trained to provide a safe and secure transportation experience for the students.
Safety tips to ensure a safe taxi ride at night in the UK:
- Book a licensed taxi: Always be sure to use a licensed taxi or minicab, which you can easily identify by the yellow license plate at the back of the vehicle.
- Pre-book your ride: Pre-booking your taxi can help ensure that you get a safe and reliable ride, especially during peak hours or late at night.
- Check the driver’s identification: Before getting into the taxi, ask to see the driver’s identification card, which should include their name, photograph, and a license number. Make sure that the information matches the information on the vehicle’s license plate.
- Share your route: Let someone know the details of your journey, including the time and route you are taking, and keep them updated if there are any changes.
- Use a GPS tracking app: You can use a GPS tracking app to share your location with a trusted friend or family member, so they can monitor your journey and ensure that you arrive safely at your destination.
- Trust your instincts: If you feel uncomfortable at any point during the journey ask the driver to pull over, and leave the taxi immediately.
- Pay attention to the details: Take note of the taxi’s license plate number, make and model, and the driver’s name, so that you can provide this information to the police if needed.
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of having a safe and comfortable taxi ride at night in the UK.