Minicab driver fined for not properly securing disabled passenger Shaukat Ali (45), of Harris Street, Peterborough, appeared at Peterborough Magistrates’ Court yesterday (Wednesday, June 12) accused of failing to take the necessary steps to ensure a passenger is carried in safety and reasonable comfort, an offence under the 2010 Equality Act.
He denied the offence.
The court heard from two support workers representing the disabled passenger about the incident on September 26, 2012.
The support workers were accompanying the passenger and two others on a journey to the PHAB Club (Physically Handicapped and Able Bodied Club) in Bretton.
On booking the private hire vehicle, Ali arrived in a specialist vehicle fitted with a tail lift as requested by the passenger.
Prior to undertaking the journey, both carers saw Ali had not restrained the passenger’s wheelchair.
Both stated that when challenged, Ali said he did not need to secure the wheelchair, as it was an electric one.
In order for a wheel chair dependant passenger to be transported safely, the wheelchair should be restrained and the passenger wear an additional seat belt.
The carers refused to allow the journey to be undertaken until Ali fitted the belts.
During the journey one of the carers noticed Ali had only restrained the chair and not the passenger.
On highlighting the safety issue, she stated Ali ignored her and continued driving.
As the vehicle negotiated a roundabout, the passenger’s wheelchair began to move, forcing the support worker to remove her own seat belt and attempt to restrain the chair.
She informed Ali of the potentially dangerous issue and alleged she was ignored.
On reaching the destination, she stated that Ali then manhandled the wheelchair causing noticeable distress to the passenger, who had to be assisted with calming techniques, before she could leave the vehicle.
While giving evidence, Ali alleged that the support workers were lying and had conspired against him because he had been rude to them during the journey.
He alleged one of the carers had undone the wheelchair restraints herself.
Ali was found guilty of the offence, fined £250 and ordered to pay £400 in costs and a £15 victim surcharge.
A decision is to be made concerning Ali’s private hire badge.
Adrian Day, licensing manager for Peterborough City Council, said: “This case should serve as a warning to taxi and private hire drivers in Peterborough that they must respect the needs of every member of our community.
“The Equality Act is there to ensure that every single person is entitled to the same standard of service and, in this case, regardless of their personal circumstances.
“This decision sends a strong message that the city council takes complaints made against the trade seriously and will investigate every incident reported to us - taking action where it is found that a driver or company isn’t providing the service that is legally required.
“The council requires taxi and private hire drivers to maintain exemplary standards and it is essential that the public has confidence in the quality of service provided. We have a responsibility to ensure that public expectations are fulfilled.”
source:
http://www.peterboroughtoday.co.uk/news ... -1-5187900
Login
Register
FAQ
