East Riding Council issues warning on FAKE BOGUS TAXIS over festive period

Image credit: East Riding of Yorkshire Council

East Riding of Yorkshire Council has issued a stern warning to residents about the risks associated with using unlicensed taxi services, particularly during the busy festive season.

The council’s licensing team has reported a rise in unregulated taxi operators offering illegal services through social media platforms. These vehicles and drivers lack the essential checks and safeguards required for legally licensed taxis, potentially putting passengers at risk.

To enhance safety, all East Riding licensed taxis are now equipped with modern CCTV systems, providing comprehensive internal coverage and forward-facing dashcams. These systems include an audio recording feature that can be activated by passengers or drivers if anyone feels at risk.

Residents are being urged to confirm their taxi is a licensed service or private hire vehicle before beginning their journey. Licensed drivers in the East Riding must prominently display a council-issued identity badge, and licensed vehicles carry distinctive markings for easy identification. Hackney Carriage vehicles, for example, display white oval door stickers and a “Taxi” top light, while private hire vehicles bear yellow oval stickers on their front doors marked “pre-booked only”.

The council has also introduced taxi marshals during key festive dates to help revellers get home safely. These marshals will be stationed in Beverley’s Saturday Market on 20 and 21 December from 8pm to 3am and on New Year’s Eve from 10pm to 3am, ensuring that residents use licensed vehicles and leave the town centre safely.

Additionally, the council reminds residents that only East Riding licensed Hackney Carriages can be hailed on the street or at taxi ranks for immediate hire. Vehicles from outside the area are prohibited from accepting street hails within East Riding, and using such services may invalidate insurance, leaving passengers vulnerable.

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Residents are encouraged to plan journeys in advance to avoid unlicensed services. Private hire vehicles must always be pre-booked and display a plate on the back of the vehicle as well as yellow oval stickers indicating their status as pre-booked transport.

Councillor Lyn Healing, East Riding of Yorkshire Council cabinet member for communities and public protection, said: “We know this time of year sees increased frequency of unlicensed taxis so it is vital to take extra precautions to stay safe. I encourage people to be stringent in only accepting trips from trusted, licensed taxis, and to report concerns to the council’s licensing team.”