Liverpool taxi drivers caught overcharging and not using meter during busy enforcement operation
Licensing officers and Mersey Tunnel Police conducted a series of checks on licenced vehicles passing through the Kingsway Tunnel in Liverpool on Saturday night.
The operation led to several drivers being reported for breaches of regulations.
One private hire vehicle (PHV) driver was found illegally plying for hire. This offence occurs when a PHV driver accepts passengers directly from the street without a pre-booked journey. Such activity is unlawful and invalidates the vehicle’s insurance, placing passengers at risk.
Two hackney carriage vehicle (HCV) drivers were also flagged for serious misconduct. They were reported for failing to use their taximeters as required and for overcharging passengers. Taximeters ensure passengers are charged accurate and regulated fares, and failure to use them undermines public trust in the service.
Additionally, 21 defect notices were issued to vehicles during the inspection. These notices highlight mechanical or safety issues that must be rectified before the vehicles can continue operating legally.
The checks underline the importance of compliance within the taxi and private hire trade, ensuring both public safety and adherence to the law.
A Liverpool City Council Licensing spokesperson said: “Licensing Officers/Mersey Tunnel Police conducted licenced vehicle inspections in Kingsway Tunnel last night.
“1 x PHV driver to be reported for illegally plying for hire/no insurance, 2 x HCV drivers reported for not using Taximeter and overcharge, and 21 defect notices issued.”
