Who’s going to drive you home this Christmas?
23rd December 2017
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Christmas revellers in Basingstoke are advised to be careful how they travel home after a festive night out.
As the party season gets underway, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council is reminding people to stay safe by always using licensed taxis and private hire vehicles, either pre-booked with a licensed operator or from an official taxi rank in the town.
Ensure the vehicle you get into displays Basingstoke and Deane Borough council issued licence plates and door signs. You can ask to see the driver’s private hire licence which will include a photo, licence number and date of expiry of licence.
Never get into an unmarked vehicle or accept a lift home from driver who says he is available when he hasn’t been booked by you.
If using Hackney Carriages, ensure the vehicle has a yellow taxi light and displays a Basingstoke and Deane Borough council issued licence plate. These taxis can be hailed in any street as they drive past as long as the TAXI light is illuminated.
All taxis and private hire vehicles in the borough must be licensed and are subject to strict regulations.
The Cabinet Member responsible for licensing Cllr Hayley Eachus said: “People should be aware that unlicensed operators without proper insurance or security checks will sometimes present themselves as a legitimate taxi service. It’s not worth the risk – stay safe and always use a taxi rank or pre-book a licensed vehicle and driver.”
