Warning issued to millions of Britons getting a taxi this Christmas

Britons have been warned about the dangers of getting into unlicensed taxis during the Christmas season, as authorities crack down on illegal operators.

Police services will be carrying out checks to ensure cab drivers have the correct licence over the festive period.

Officials at Wrexham Council have raised concerns about car owners who take advantage of people at the end of their evening by offering unofficial taxi services.

These drivers pose a serious risk to public safety, potentially leaving passengers vulnerable in case of incidents.

Enforcement officers from local councils are now working alongside police to conduct spot checks throughout the Christmas period, focusing on busy streets and popular night spots where illegal operators often seek customers.

“Many unlicensed taxi drivers may be driving in busy streets or hovering about busy night spots for unsuspecting individuals or groups,” warned councillor Hugh Jones, GB News reported.

The practice also impacts legitimate taxi operators’ livelihoods, Jones continued, as unlicensed drivers direct income from properly registered services.

Authorities have said they are particularly concerned about the increase in illegal operators around the upcoming festive season, as more people will be enjoying nights out with friends and family.

To ensure safety, authorities have highlighted clear ways to identify legitimate taxis during Christmas.

All licensed private hire vehicles and hackney cabs must display distinctive white and purple coloured license plates on the exterior of their vehicles.

Hackney Carriages can be identified by their rear plate and an illuminated roof sign that clearly shows the word “TAXI”.

Passengers are also urged to check for driver ID badges, which must display the driver’s name, photograph, license number and expiry date. If this is not immediately visible, customers should request to see it before beginning their journey.

These safety measures are part of a coordinated effort between local councils and police to protect the public during the festive season.

Jones added: “We will have council enforcement officers working alongside North Wales Police officers over the festive period conducting spot checks.”

It is best practice to book through reputable companies and never accept rides from unmarked vehicles or drivers who cannot produce the correct identification.

Sergeant Medwyn Williams of North Wales Police Roads Crime Unit stated: “We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable time this Christmas. A really important part of a night out is making sure that you can get home safely afterward.

“We are working closely with Wrexham Council and are carrying out spot checks. We don’t want people to get into unlicensed taxis – and by that I mean people who do taxi runs in their own vehicles, who are unlicensed and who could be anyone.”