1 February 2010 Taxicard- free money for drivers?

I have had recent problems with Taxis, from being ignored when trying to hail a cab, to lazy drivers who dont want to use the ramps properly, but a more recent problem has transpired when using Taxicard.

The Government scheme is available in London where a journey is subsidised and depending on your Local Authority, this is usually up to £11.80. The scheme is a postive step to help alleviate additional costs incurred by those with mobility problems, but I find of recent past, that these measures are being misused.

Being charged for the time it takes to get in and out of the taxi, especially with the use of ramps seems unfair, and drivers can take as long as they want to complete the journey.

If a non disabled person was to hail a cab it takes seconds to enter a cab, as a wheelchair user it takes longer. I was charged £6.50 before entering a taxi last week in London. The driver thinks this is ok, because you are subsidised for the first £11.80. But this amount should be used for travelling time, not for time it takes for him to slowly make his way around the taxi. We wouldnt be charged more if it takes longer to get into a bus or a train, so why a taxi?

I understand it is the drivers time which could be spent on picking up non disabled people, but we need to change the mentality of the drivers.  

3 Comments

• Jennifer Gallacher replied on 2 Feb 2010 at 16:24
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  i agree. this scheme should also be available across the country! it would save me a fortune if I had this card.

• Jagz replied on 4 Feb 2010 at 22:35
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  Defo agree too. The charge should start once the cab is moving, not before.
  A great scheme though, wish it was available here in the Midlands.

• Indra Wignall replied on 3 Mar 2010 at 18:37
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  Boo! :( It's the same taximan logic as 'I will drive round 400 back roads, they won't notice!' WE DO! Have you complained to the taxicard people? I would, it's so wrong!
  I do wish we had it here in Preston though, I would be able to do so much more! Like visit the temple, my friends, local events and hobbycraft!!!!!!! Actually, it's probably better for my bank account that I don't have regular access to hobbycraft! :P

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