Been a few stories in the news today about people being ripped off by Rickshaw cabs (a guy pulling a cart on wheels), being charged hundreds of pounds for short journeys. Use a black cab or pre-booked mini cab only. I always ask the driver for an estimated fare before getting in a cab anyway. Hopefully Boris will ban the Rickshaw cabs soon. There are very few things for the tourist to be concerned about in London, but these are one. Avoid.
Posted by
London, United Kingdom
4684 posts
As well as the recent rip-off stories, they're a horrible obstruction to traffic as well. Seriously, don't encourage them.
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
33997 posts
And the poor passenger is not covered by any insurance.
It is and always has been strong advice to only hail in the street a black cab. Never get into any minicab or any private hire vehicle not pre-booked. It is the only way to be at all safe.
I saw one recent story where a tourist was charged £300 per minute and the rickshaw never moved. .
Posted by
OP
London, England.
662 posts
In the recent cases, the Rickshaw driver claimed the passenger had agreed to the price (the drivers standard rates) as they had not asked the price before getting in. It's clearly bs as who would agree to such a high price, but as stupid as it is, the law might be on their side. If you get into any bother, call the Police (999) and they should be sympathetic to your situation. Easier still is don't get in one. Karma has a way of catching up with dodgy people... let's hope.
Posted by
New York City, NY, USA
5678 posts
Beware of similar tactics regarding the pedicabs in NYC. The rates are ridiculous to go a single block. They are supposed to post the rates prominently, but people still find themselves paying upward of $100 or more.
Pam
Posted by
Oxford, United Kingdom
5466 posts
London won't properly license rickshaws as they would need to count them as a hackney carriage - if they are plying for trade.
Some local authorities do license rickshaws as private hire vehicles when they can only be pre booked etc. Oxford is one example of this.