Lincolnshire taxi drivers warned legal duty to assist visually and audibly impaired passengers

North East Lincolnshire taxi drivers have been reminded of their legal duty to assist visually and audibly impaired passengers.

Taxi drivers in North East Lincolnshire are being reminded of their legal obligations under the Equality Act 2010 to accommodate assistance dogs for passengers with visual and auditory impairments.

With 133 refusals reported to Guide Dogs in 2023, the issue of access remains significant. Drivers, barring those with a verified medical exemption, face criminal charges for refusing service to assistance dog owners. Such refusals not only impede the independence of individuals with disabilities but also carry penalties for drivers. The council highlights a recent two-week suspension of a licensed driver in the area for such an offense.

Councillor Stan Shreeve, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care, said: “For many of us, including myself, the gift of sight and hearing is something we take for granted.

“Very few of us know what it’s like to be visually or audibly impaired and for those that do, public transport is essential. Without it, some would struggle to leave their homes and live the life they deserve.

“I ask that taxi drivers across the borough think about this when approached by those with assistance dogs. Not only is it your legal duty, but it is also a way of helping people in their day to day life.”