Stay safe this Christmas and take a licensed cab

Rugby Borough Council's licensing team has issued simple steps residents can take to travel by taxi with confidence over Christmas - starting with checking both the cab and its driver have licences.

Licensed taxis have a licence plate attached to the rear of the vehicle, detailing which council has licensed the cab, the licence number, vehicle registration and the licence's expiry date.

A badge on the taxi's dashboard or front windscreen should also display the information.

Private hire taxis must be booked in advance and cannot pick up fares on the street.

Private hire taxi drivers who pick up passengers on the street risk prosecution, while passengers have no insurance in the event of an accident.

Rugby's white, Hackney carriage taxis pick up passengers from one of the town centre's taxi ranks  - outside New Look and the Clock Tower in North Street, and outside the railway station in Railway Terrace - while passengers can also hail Hackney carriages on the street.

Drivers of both private hire and Hackney carriage cabs must also be licensed, and should wear a photo ID badge. 

Passengers should ask to see the ID before travelling to make sure the driver has a taxi licence.

Cllr Claire Edwards, Rugby Borough Council portfolio holder for communities and homes, regulation and safety, said: "With increased demand for taxis over the festive period, it's important passengers know how to identify a licensed cab and driver before travelling.

"It's always worth checking your taxi and its driver have a licence, and make a note of which council has licensed the cab or driver, as some taxis operating in Rugby have licences issued by other councils.

"Should you wish to make a complaint about a driver who has been licensed by another council, you'll need to tell us which council in order for us to investigate.

"We want all our residents to enjoy the festive party season and stay safe this Christmas," Cllr Edwards added.

"By taking the time to make a few simple checks, you can help make sure you get home safely after a night out."

Cllr Jerry Roodhouse, leader of Rugby Borough Council's Liberal Democrat group, added: "Residents need to feel safe, especially at this time of year, and using licensed taxi operators give that security.

"If anyone has concerns about a taxi or taxi driver, make sure you get the badge or licence plate number and report it to the council."

Residents can make a complaint about a taxi and/or driver online at www.rugby.gov.uk/reportaproblem