How to Use a Cab Safely

There comes a time in everyone’s life when a taxi service must be summoned. Whether for transport to or from airports, hotels, theaters, or in the event of emergencies, there are some tips that can help to ensure safety and ease in "Doin’ the Cab Thing."

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Calling ahead for a taxi is what experts advise, as opposed to hailing a stray cab—-especially in foreign countries. The advantage is that passengers will have their call on record and in the event of lost articles, it is easier to track down.
2. Try to stick with known companies, if you are at all familiar with them. Determine if there is a difference in charges if you are traveling on off hours or weekends/holidays, or if you are accessing a larger vehicle from the fleet.
3. When calling, any special needs can be addressed—-such as a large party and several pieces of luggage--as well as any fears that customers may have.
4. Ask for the cab’s number that will be responding. Taxis are licensed as a precaution for passengers, and if that info seems to be missing from the inside of the cab, get out. Also, do not drive with a driver who is drunk, doesn’t know the local area, is using a vehicle that is seriously aged or in disrepair. Pay attention to the cab and driver’s I.D. number; it will save time if subsequent problems crop up.
5. Experts say to sit in the back seat and to keep your cell phone easily accessible. Do not get into a cab that already holds another passenger and travel with a friend, if possible. Do not enter the cab until all of your luggage is loaded in the trunk, and it is closed and locked.
   
   In Ontario, cab passengers have to wear a seatbelt, and can be fined if they don’t. The driver must provide passengers with working ones that are easily accessible, but he doesn’t have to have a child safety seat. It’s advised by experts that you travel with your own car seat.
   
   Try and secure an estimated time for the arrival at your destination from your driver. If you have a preferred route, ask the driver to use it. You are entitled to that right.
   
   If the driver tries to bargain your fee rather than use his meter, exit his cab at the first chance and find another means of transportation. Typically, say experts, a driver going off the meter will cost you two to three times more than if he uses it.
   
   Also, ask if there is additional charge for luggage. Remember that new luggage is also a magnet for theft.
6. If you feel uneasy for any reason, ask the driver to pull over at your first safe spot, pay and leave the cab. If that safe spot is your home, wait until the driver leaves the area before actually indicating which is your home and entering it.
   
   Another method to protect yourself is to carry $5 in your hand, and exit the cab quickly at the first light, as you hand the money to the driver. Don’t try and get out mid-street. Then, walk in the opposite direction of the one the cab is headed. Of course, this won’t work if you have luggage in the trunk.
   
   Cabs also have two-way radios that can be used in the event of an emergency.
   
   Generally, drivers have more to worry about with drunk or larcenous passengers in America, so you are safe. But, taking one in a foreign country may be an entirely different adventure!