Q. Why can't I flag down a mini-cab?
A. The Local Licensing Authority issue a number of Hackney Carriage licenses which allow taxis to ply for hire on the streets or at taxi ranks and carry passengers who have not booked in advance. Fares for taxi companies are metered and the rate agreed with the Licensing Authority.
Minicabs are licensed differently and can only carry passengers who have booked in advance with their company. A minicab company is allowed to set its own fares and the cars do not have meters.
Whilst most authorities (with the exception of London) carry out checks on both cars and drivers to ensure the safety of the public, passengers should note that minicabs are generally only insured to carry passengers who have booked in advance. If an accident were to occur, the insurance may not cover passengers who have not booked in advance. Furthermore the minicab driver would be in breach of his license agreement if he/she were to carry a passenger who had not booked.back to F.A.Q
