Taxi drivers hailed as ‘legends’ by passengers in UK survey
- Perry Richardson
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Taxi drivers have been described as “legends” by passengers in a national survey examining UK travel habits and attitudes towards the industry.
Research by Sterling Insurance found nearly 40% of 1,250 respondents use taxis or private hire vehicles at least once a month, signalling steady demand across the market.
Passenger feedback highlighted instances of drivers going beyond expectations. One respondent said a driver rushed them to hospital after a dog bite when an ambulance “refused to attend”. Another recalled a driver giving a free ride to a woman in labour, describing the cabbie as “a legend”.
The survey also revealed a clear generational divide in tipping. Almost three in five over-65s said they always tip, with some adding £6 to £10 per journey. In contrast, Gen Z passengers were the least likely to tip and most likely to avoid gratuities altogether.
Strong demand and standout passenger stories underline the sector’s continued importance
Safety remains a key factor in usage, particularly among women. Nearly one in three said they take a taxi between midnight and 4am, reinforcing the role of the trade in late-night travel.
While regional differences were not detailed, the findings point to a resilient sector supported by both regular use and strong public sentiment.
Peter Cook, of Sterling Insurance, said: “Taxi drivers play an integral role in the life of people living in, and visiting, Britain.
“It was great to see how people are using this vital part of our transport system today but we also enjoyed seeing some weird and wonderful stories that were offered from the backseats. From legendary drivers who channelled their inner emergency services to taxi DJs, there was a bit of everything in the responses.
“It was really lovely to read all the kind words for taxi drivers. We’re not surprised to see the word legend used because that’s what they are in so many different ways; it’s great to see them getting the recognition they deserve.”
Cook added: “Taxi drivers aren’t just helping us get home safely after we’ve maybe had one drink too many.
“But without them, it’s quite clear that lots of women wouldn’t feel safe enough to go out and socialise because they’d be worried about getting home. So thank you taxi drivers; British life wouldn’t be what it is without you.”
