Ministers place responsibility on cabbies as MP questions taxi and PHV app safety around booking apps, navigation tools and in-cab distraction
- Perry Richardson
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
The Department for Transport has confirmed it has not issued specific guidance to developers of private hire booking or navigation applications, despite growing use of app-based technology across the taxi and private hire vehicle sector.
In a series of written parliamentary questions, Iqbal Mohamed asked ministers what assessment had been made of the impact of private hire booking apps and navigation software on road safety and driver distraction, whether guidance had been issued to app developers, and what discussions had taken place with technology companies to improve safety features.
Responding on behalf of the Government, Lilian Greenwood said the Department for Transport had “not issued specific guidance to developers of navigation or private hire applications” but continues to engage with industry and monitor how the technologies are used in practice.
The response highlights the increasingly important role digital platforms now play in the taxi and private hire industry. Many drivers routinely rely on multiple applications simultaneously, including passenger booking platforms, dispatch systems, satellite navigation tools and communication apps while working.
However, the Government indicated it currently sees existing road traffic legislation as providing the primary framework for managing any safety risks associated with these technologies.
Greenwood said: “The law is clear; drivers are responsible for maintaining proper control of their vehicle and always paying attention to the road.”
She added that it remains illegal to hold and use a mobile phone or similar device while driving, including when stopped in traffic or waiting at traffic lights. Cases where a driver becomes distracted or loses proper control of their vehicle remain matters for police enforcement.
The answers suggest ministers are not currently planning a dedicated regulatory approach for taxi and private hire applications. Instead, the Department said it would continue to assess the benefits offered by digital technologies while supporting the development of “safer, distraction-minimising systems”.
The response may be noted by operators and app developers as the sector continues to become increasingly dependent on smartphone-based workflows. While the Government has acknowledged the importance of reducing driver distraction, the latest statement indicates responsibility remains focused on drivers themselves rather than through specific design requirements or guidance aimed at technology providers.
Greenwood said: “The Department for Transport has not issued specific guidance to developers of navigation or private hire applications but engages with industry and monitors how these technologies are used in practice.
“The law is clear; drivers are responsible for maintaining proper control of their vehicle and always paying attention to the road. It is illegal to hold and use a mobile phone or similar device whilst driving, including when a vehicle is stopped in traffic or at traffic lights. Where a driver is distracted or not in proper control of their vehicle, enforcement is an operational matter for the police.
“The Government will continue to assess the benefits of such technologies while supporting the development of safer, distraction‑minimising systems.”
