Bolton Council’s licensing team has distributed hundreds of stickers to local taxi and private hire drivers for display in their vehicles, reminding passengers to wear face coverings. Face coverings are mandatory for all public transport including Hackney carriages and private hire vehicles.
Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services, Cllr Hilary Fairclough, said: “Our taxi and private hire sector play a vital role in moving people around the borough over the festive period.
“For your own personal safety and that of the drivers, you must wear a face covering throughout your journey.
“Face coverings in these vehicles are required by law in the same way they are in other forms of public transport.”
In addition to face coverings, there are other ways you can ensure you travel safely in private hire vehicles:
- Only use private hire vehicles when pre-booked to ensure their insurance is valid in the event of an accident. Only hackney carriages (traditional style taxis) can be “hailed” in the street.
- Know what to look for when booking or hailing a vehicle. Private hire vehicles licensed by Bolton Council should display front and rear plates, back door signs and internal driver information. Hackney carriage vehicles should display a rear plate.
- Look out for vehicles with the “Trust to Ride” accreditation sticker. This means the driver has taken training to ensure they know how to respond to a passenger who may be vulnerable or at risk.
If you see anything suspicious, report it to council licensing at licensing.unit@bolton.gov.uk, Greater Manchester Police on 101 (non-emergency) or 999 (emergency).