How safe are taxis in London?


How safe are taxis in London? Thousands of taxi and minicab journeys are taken every day, the majority without incident. We take passenger safety extremely seriously.


Are London taxis reliable?

London taxis (black cabs) are the safest, most honest and best in the world. Mini-cabs are not as safe as London taxis.


How can I be safe in a taxi alone?

My Top 10 Taxi Safety Tips
  1. Save Emergency Contacts. Save emergency contacts on your phone. ...
  2. Enable GPS Tracking. Use Google Maps or another app for GPS tracking. ...
  3. Try Rideshare Services First. ...
  4. Make Sure Your Ride Is LEGIT. ...
  5. Discuss The Price. ...
  6. Note The License Plate. ...
  7. Get Into The Back Seat. ...
  8. Stay Vigilant.


Which side of London is safer?

Safest Areas of London London's safest neighborhoods tend to be the most affluent ones. Mayfair, South Kensington, Knightsbridge, Belgravia, Chelsea – all these are largely safe to walk around any time of day (though take care in Brompton and Earl's Court at night).


Are London taxi drivers honest?

Taxi drivers in London are reputable and reliable, and most are honest and trustworthy. The vast majority of taxi journeys in London are trouble-free and are charged at the standard rate set by Transport for London (TfL), which is regulated by law.


Should you sit in the back of a taxi UK?

The original design of the London black cab didn't even have a passenger seat. It had a rack, on which you placed your luggage before retreating to the peaceful rear. This confirmed the convention at an early stage. The normal, balanced passenger occupies the back seat of a taxi.


Where is the safest place to sit in a cab?

The middle backseat was deemed the safest place to sit as a result of a study performed by University of Buffalo researchers. The research team looked at the data on how many fatalities occurred during car crashes in the U.S. over a period of four years.


What are the disadvantages of using a taxi?

  • You have a big responsibility for your passengers.
  • Taxi drivers don't make much money.
  • You don't have a regular schedule.
  • Taxi drivers have to work at nighttime.
  • Some cab drivers even have to work on weekends and holidays.
  • Can be problematic for your family life.


Where do you sit in a taxi UK?

Also let the cabbie know if you have a route in mind that you'd prefer the driver to take, as this will ensure that you avoid any disputes later on. In most black cabs the two front seats are usually partitioned off by a screen and it's common for customers to sit in the back rather than in the front.


Why are taxis safer than Uber?

One major benefit of using a taxi service is that most companies employ full-time drivers who are subject to regular monitoring by the company. This means that companies have access to security cameras and two-way radios placed in each car, allowing them to keep an eye on both road conditions and driver behavior.


How do I know if a taxi is safe?

Check the car over quickly before you get into it – if it isn't clean and well-presented you don't have to get in. Once you're inside, check the driver's ID. Every legitimate cab will have the driver's ID prominently displayed, so check that the photo bears at least a passing resemblance to your driver.


Can a London taxi refuse to take you?

A taxi driver is obliged to accept passengers which fall within the taxi authorized area and are within 6 miles of the origination of the fare. A taxi driver can refuse a fare if the passenger looks drunk, sick or aggressive.


What is the safest way to travel in London?

Travel safe
  • Buses. Sit downstairs or close to the driver on a double-decker night bus, where they can see you. ...
  • Tubes and trains. Always try to avoid sitting in an empty carriage where you are more vulnerable.
  • Cycles. ...
  • Walking. ...
  • Taxis. ...
  • Minicabs. ...
  • Pedicabs (rickshaws)


Is a taxi safer then a Uber?

From taxis to rideshare services, it can be hard to decide which option is best for your needs. But if safety and reliability are your top priorities, then taxis may be the way to go.


Is it safer to walk or get a taxi?

No matter if you are male or female, young or old, it's important you keep yourself safe when getting a taxi. Getting a taxi is generally considered safer than walking home alone, or getting public transport, however there are still risks.


Are London black cabs worth it?

London Black cab prices are affordable, and they offer a good value for money. They are usually metered and have a minimum charge of around 3 to 4 pounds. We think these rates are great for the amazing services and classy cars the cab companies offer.