There has been an increase in the number of wheelchair users using public transport over the last few years. This has increased the demand for taxi services, especially in major cities such as London. The introduction of disabled taxicab service in London has meant that wheelchair users can now use a standard taxi to travel around the city. This service has been especially beneficial to wheelchair users who may otherwise struggle to access different areas of the city. A separate company has taken over the provision of wheelchair vans and coaches as well as the provision of individual driven buses and taxis. This leaves the more traditional cab owners out in the cold.
The growth in the UK taxi services is also being supported by changes in taxi regulations. These regulations are currently under review and a report will be published in spring 2021. However, taxi drivers have suffered a number of complaints regarding poor handling of passengers and poor taxi services. Without the introduction of these regulations, these problems will persist.
The introduction of chauffeur-driven vehicles:
c is also a step towards encouraging more people to use alternative modes of transport. Many taxicabs feature the chauffeur option which allows customers to hire the vehicle for themselves and their friends. For those who wish to travel alone, they can opt to hail a taxicab or book a ride home using their credit card. Many taxicabs now allow customers to book a one-way pick up from their location or the customer can book a return trip using their credit card.
However, for those with disabilities, it has often been a problem getting around a city if they have a disability that limits their ability to walk or if they have no way of transferring between public and private companies. A recent survey showed that over half of the general public think taxi services are inaccessible due to transport problems. Many disabled people rely on taxis to make it to work, home, or store. It also highlights the need for taxi service improvements to ensure that everyone has access to a reliable and safe form of transportation.
Taxis used to pick only the very elderly or extremely disabled for transport but recently these companies have begun to offer lifts for more normal passenger requirements. If you want to relax in style, this type of taxi will be perfect.
Other ways in which a change in taxi regulations:
Other ways in which a change in taxi regulations could impact public transport would be to provide wheelchair accessibility. This means wheelchair-bound passengers do not have to worry about being denied access to transport. Providing wheelchair access means that every person who needs to use public transport is able to do so.
Although taxi regulations in the UK are relatively restrictive, they do not appear to be outdated. There is evidence that more people are now able to travel without requiring assistance with mobility issues. If this continues, the growth of the taxi market in the UK will continue to rise.
