Here are a number of ways that you can make sure you stay safe when travelling by taxi or minicab, especially at night:

• try and use a trusted company that you, your friends or family use regularly
• always try and book a taxi in advance, if you have to flag one down remember that black “hackney” cabs are the only taxis allowed to stop and pick you up
• make sure when you book a taxi or minicab that you get the name of the driver as well as the make and colour of the car to be sure that you are getting into the correct car
• before you get in the car make sure it is the taxi you booked, if they don’t know your details, don’t get in!
• never get in an unlicensed car, make sure you can see the drivers taxi license, all licensed drivers must have them on display
• text the registration number of the car to a friend or family member so that if anything does happen they can help to identify the car
• try to share a taxi with a friend where possible and always sit in the back
• try and agree a price for the journey with the firm or the driver before you set off to make sure you have enough money for the journey
• if you talk to the driver try not to give out any personal details
• if you feel unsafe get the driver to stop in a busy area and let you get out
• keep your mobile with you in case you need to call anyone or the police

For more advice on how to travel safely in taxis follow the links below.

Date Published: 28/03/08