Taxis have become very popular for public transportation needs. However, with every virtue there is a vice. This article does not focus only on crimes committed by taxi drivers in taxis, but also on crimes committed by malicious passengers.
It would be completely unfair and critical if you only singled out taxi drivers or passengers as criminals. Below are some safety tips that both parties can consider to stay safe.
Safety tips for passengers
1. Planning and advance booking
Pre-planning and pre-booking are two important things you can do to avoid any kind of unfortunate circumstances. Most taxi companies have their own websites and have made it convenient and safe to book your taxi before you travel.
2. More information on local taxi rules
Taxi rules vary from city to city. A taxi driver in New York cannot charge any extra for your luggage. Therefore, before hiring, find out about the city’s taxi rules to avoid being misled.
3. Know your service provider and taxi driver
When booking a taxi for yourself, take note of the details, such as the taxi registration number and the name of the taxi company. Don’t be reluctant to ask the taxi driver for his license and identification card to verify his association with the taxi company. This procedure is legal and will help you to file a complaint if necessary or to recover things that were lost during your trip.
4. Pay extra attention
If you’re new to the place, booking a taxi can make your trip easier, but not at all times. Your taxi driver to deceive you may take a long route. To avoid this type of situation, always carry a city map and a pencil that are useful to mark your route.
Safety tips for taxi driving
It would be unfair to hold only taxi drivers responsible for crimes committed in taxis. If a taxi driver is having a bad day, they may get robbed and lose all their hard-earned money. But being careful can avoid such unfavorable incidents.
1. Make frequent cash transfers
It is always advisable to carry fewer amounts with you and make frequent cash deliveries. But make sure you always carry some change. Following this will save you from losing your hard-earned money.
2. Be attentive and alert
Since taxi drivers work alone all the time, even late at night, it is mandatory that they be vigilant and alert. A taxi driver must know the routes of the city very well, as this is useful when traveling to areas prone to crime. Taxi drivers must be more vigilant when taking night shifts. Minimize risk by avoiding dangerous city routes.
3. Maintain eye contact with your rate
When getting a passenger, always try to maintain eye contact from the moment the passenger enters the taxi. It gives you a simple message that you are confident and cannot be disturbed. It informs the passenger that he can recognize him if he considers committing some type of crime. Avoid telling a customer that you had a good shift.
4. Communicate well with the passenger
Communicate well with the passenger and inform him about the planned route and the estimated fare. This will reduce the risk of any disputes at the end of the trip.
* If you are in danger, do not confront yourself. Instead, try to remember the characteristics of your passenger, along with the conversations they had and other details. This will aid in the proper police investigation in the event of such an unpleasant incident.
