Taxi Driver Online

Promised myself I'd ignore any more of these, er, thingies, but at least this one's a bit different

But whether that's a good or bad thing is strictly according to taste. But precisely how it's different is obvious from the off. And it's like that all the way through...

Funny thing, though is the use of the t-word throughout, and no attempt to differentiate HCs and PHVs.

And in some ways it seems to ignore the existence of PHVs completely (by reference to adequate taxis on the ranks, for example), but then refers to booking through 'operators', thus PH despatchers.

(And no reference to the turquoise coloured HCs, although there is a photo... )

So the t-word is totally generic here, and absolutely no attempt to differentiate the two codes in terms of hiring etc

Also interesting, however, is the negative reference to 'national app-based operators' (which aren't on 'Santa's nice list' ) regarding safety, surge pricing, CCTV, complaints procedures, and even lost property (albeit referenced very indirectly).


Santa's top tip: use licensed taxis after Christmas parties!

https://www.guildford.gov.uk/article/27 ... as-parties



As the jingle bells start ringing and the holiday season kicks into full swing, we're reminding you to stay safe by using licensed taxis for your Christmas and New Year travels.

With mistletoe, mulled wine, and merrymaking in abundance, it's easy to get caught up in the Christmas cheer and holiday spirit. But after you've sung the last carol and devoured the last mince pie, it's important to make sure you get home safely.

Ensure everyone gets home in one piece (even if your dignity got a bit dented at the office party).

Guildford licensed taxis are:

• secure

• reliable

• the Santa-approved way to travel

Why choose licensed taxis?

Santa-approved safety

Just like Santa's sleigh, licensed taxis are subject to rigorous safety checks prior to setting off. Drivers are thoroughly vetted, ensuring they are all on Santa's "Nice List" by meeting our council's standards. There will be no Grinches looking to ruin your journey. Using a licensed taxi also means lost items such as presents or phones can be found easily.

Naughty List CCTV

All Guildford Licensed taxis have CCTV, providing that extra level of safety, particularly for individuals worried about getting home on their own. CCTV is there to protect drivers and passengers.

Elf-sized insurance

Licensed taxis are fully insured, protecting both drivers and passengers in the event of Santa's sleigh landing unexpectedly in front of the vehicle.

Festive cheer with change left over for the January sales

Licensed taxis do not use surge pricing so the fare will be set by our council and you can be sure of what you will pay for your journey.

Stay on the Nice List for next year

If you're out enjoying yourself and need to get home, make sure you use a taxi rather than placing yourself and others at risk by driving under the influence. You may not be able to avoid a hangover but you will prevent a serious accident and criminal record.

Santa's tips for using licensed taxis

Plan ahead

Book your taxi in advance, especially on Christmas Eve, to avoid any last-minute dashes.

Check the licence

Look for the taxi's license plate and driver ID before you dash through the snow and climb aboard. All Guildford licensed vehicles display official identification on the rear plate and front doors.

Use trusted services

There is good availability of taxis from official ranks in Guildford town. Head here to get home safety or book with well-known taxi companies or licensed operators that are on Santa's 'Nice List'. National App based operators are not licensed by Guildford and not subject to our rigorous standards, including not having CCTV to keep you safe. We recommend not to use these so we can deal with any concerns effectively.

Lead Councillor for Regulatory and Democratic Services, Cllr Merel Rehorst-Smith said:

"As we deck the halls and enjoy the festivities, let's also remember to prioritise our safety. Using licensed taxis ensures a sleigh-safe journey home, so we can all have a holly jolly Christmas. Stay merry and safe, everyone!"

So no T2, or T3/T4 at Christmas and New Year then?

And, again, that's a bit of an odd thing to say if the whole thing is also referring to PHVs. Unless it's one of those places where the norm is to have PHVs with meters set at the HC rate...