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1,320 Taxi Drivers Caught Overcharging Trips To The Suburbs
By
Garth Johnston
Published Feb 18, 2013
Modified Feb 18, 2013
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By
Garth Johnston
Published Feb 18, 2013
Modified Feb 18, 2013
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Remember back in 2010 when folks were shocked, shocked, to learn that cabbies were systematically scamming fares heading out to the suburbs by charging them the out-of-city rate (Rate 4) the whole ride? Well, despite new warnings installed in Taxi TV, it seems the practice has not gone away. But at least it has gotten far less prevalent!
During 2010, 35,558 drivers, 75 percent of the licensed hacks in the city, were found to have clipped at least one passenger . A recent examination of fares and taxi GPS data found 1,936 overcharges by 1,320 drivers in 2012. Still not great, but also a massive improvement. Especially as 1,097 of those drivers overcharged only once—a strong indication those were accidents.
Still, the TLC isn't taking any chances. "We believe that drivers should at this point be well aware of their circumstances and how to operate their equipment," TLC spokesman Allan Fromberg said of the "Rate 4 violations."
According to the TLC, it brought up charges on all of the incidents. More than 30 percent were settled before trial, with the cabbies paying fines. Seven drivers, who overcharged three or more times within three years, had their licenses revoked. All of which is to say if you are going to take a cab into the suburbs (really?) pay attention to what the meter and the alerts on Taxi TV say. Don't overpay! And don't get stabby!
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