Three injured in serious rickshaw and bus collision in heart of London’s Soho district

Police and ambulance crews were called to a collision involving a rickshaw and a bus in central London during the early hours of Monday 25 August.

The incident took place at around 1.10am at the junction of Charing Cross Road and Phoenix Street. Emergency services treated three men at the scene before taking them to hospital.

One man was later discharged with minor injuries. Two others, aged 23 and 25, remain in hospital with injuries described as serious. Police say they are awaiting further updates on their condition.

Officers have appealed for witnesses to come forward. Anyone with information is urged to call 101 quoting reference CAD 483/25AUG.

The collision in Soho has again raised questions about regulation of the vehicles, which are often seen transporting tourists around the West End late at night. Unlike taxis and private hire vehicles, rickshaws are not subject to the same level of licensing, inspection or driver vetting.

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Westminster City Council has long campaigned for stronger controls, citing concerns over safety, congestion and the aggressive touting of fares. The Government has handed Transport for London (TfL) powers to regulate the trade, but legislation has faced lengthy consultations.

Representatives from the licensed taxi industry reacted to the collision. The Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association (LTDA) said on social media: “TfL have been sitting on their hands on the powers to regulate these things for 18 months and are still consulting.”

The London Cab Drivers Club (LCDC) said on social media: "No MOT, no Encap Safety Certification, no airbags, no seatbelts and people driving without any DBS / Safety checks.”