Party goers, revellers and taxi users are being warned to be on their guard at this time of year by Knowsley Council for illegal taxi drivers.

The council’s Licensing Service is urging people to travel safely and not get into an unlicensed taxi as they are illegal.

Cllr Ken Keith, Knowsley’s Cabinet Member for Corporate Resources, said: “If you are travelling by taxi, for your own safety, make sure it’s a black cab (traditional London style) or private hire vehicle. One of the main things you should do is always make a note of the vehicle licence number.”

To keep safe there are several travel tips to look out for to make sure you are in a legal taxi:

All Hackney cabs and private hire taxis display a licence plate at the back of the car showing the car licence number, the registration number and expiry date of the license. A private hire will also have the make and model of the vehicle and the expiry date of the license.

Both will also have signs inside showing the vehicle licence number.

Drivers of Hackney cabs and private hire taxis should also be wearing an ID badge showing their photograph. Another ID badge should be on display inside the vehicle.

Taxi users should also be aware this year when travelling prices have gone up slightly.
If you have any complaints about a journey you have made in a Knowsley black cab or private hire please contact the Council’s Licensing Service on 0151 443 3936/3605.
http://aboutknowsley.typepad.com/news/2006/12/travel_safe_thi.html