Is it safe to get a taxi in London?


Is it safe to get a taxi in London? Thousands of taxi and minicab journeys are taken every day, the majority without incident. We take passenger safety extremely seriously.


Are London taxis reliable?

London taxis (black cabs) are the safest, most honest and best in the world. Mini-cabs are not as safe as London taxis.


How can I be safe in a taxi alone?

My Top 10 Taxi Safety Tips
  1. Save Emergency Contacts. Save emergency contacts on your phone. ...
  2. Enable GPS Tracking. Use Google Maps or another app for GPS tracking. ...
  3. Try Rideshare Services First. ...
  4. Make Sure Your Ride Is LEGIT. ...
  5. Discuss The Price. ...
  6. Note The License Plate. ...
  7. Get Into The Back Seat. ...
  8. Stay Vigilant.


Are London taxi drivers honest?

Taxi drivers in London are reputable and reliable, and most are honest and trustworthy. The vast majority of taxi journeys in London are trouble-free and are charged at the standard rate set by Transport for London (TfL), which is regulated by law.


Why do taxis always want cash?

Being paid with cash means drivers have money ready to pay for ongoing costs such as fuel, repairs and maintenance. While many card transactions can be instant, some can take days to process and the driver has to wait for the money to reach their account.


How do I know if a taxi is safe?

Check the car over quickly before you get into it – if it isn't clean and well-presented you don't have to get in. Once you're inside, check the driver's ID. Every legitimate cab will have the driver's ID prominently displayed, so check that the photo bears at least a passing resemblance to your driver.


Is it OK not to tip a taxi driver?

Most drivers pay for the privilege of driving an agency cab. Your tips are all they make in salary. 15-20%. And if you're thinking of not tipping that much, please don't take a cab.


Do I tip London taxi drivers?

Tipping taxi drivers It is polite to tip 10 to 15% of the taxi fare for black cabs and licensed minicabs in London. However, most people simply round up the fare to the nearest £1 and tell the driver to keep the change.


Is it rude to not tip in London?

Tipping is appreciated but not always appropriate in London. There are some situations where it is customary, for example in restaurants.


Are London taxis cash only?

Yes, you can hail a London black taxi in the street and pay the driver in cash at the end of your journey. Most cabs also accept credit and debit cards now.


Is it easy to get a taxi in London?

Getting a London black cab is extremely easy as there are thousands of them bustling around the city centre. You can choose to take one from the street as it passes by, walk to a designated taxi rank or call a local London taxi company.


Can a London taxi refuse to take you?

A taxi driver is obliged to accept passengers which fall within the taxi authorized area and are within 6 miles of the origination of the fare. A taxi driver can refuse a fare if the passenger looks drunk, sick or aggressive.


What is the safest way to travel in London?

Travel safe
  • Buses. Sit downstairs or close to the driver on a double-decker night bus, where they can see you. ...
  • Tubes and trains. Always try to avoid sitting in an empty carriage where you are more vulnerable.
  • Cycles. ...
  • Walking. ...
  • Taxis. ...
  • Minicabs. ...
  • Pedicabs (rickshaws)


Is it safer to walk or get a taxi?

No matter if you are male or female, young or old, it's important you keep yourself safe when getting a taxi. Getting a taxi is generally considered safer than walking home alone, or getting public transport, however there are still risks.


Are London black cabs worth it?

London Black cab prices are affordable, and they offer a good value for money. They are usually metered and have a minimum charge of around 3 to 4 pounds. We think these rates are great for the amazing services and classy cars the cab companies offer.


Is it rude not to tip UK?

Unlike some countries you do not have to tip in the UK. However, there are some unsaid social rules about leaving a tip. For example, if you take a taxi it is normal practice to round up the fare to the nearest pound.