Meter fault leaves Dundee taxi drivers out of pocket
Dundee taxi drivers are thought to have lost out on thousands of pounds of earnings during one of the busiest times of the year after their electronic meters failed to register a festive fare rise.
- By Maura Bowman
- Published in the Courier : 03.01.11
- Published online : 03.01.11 @ 11.50am
The fault in meters used in around 400 of the city's cabs was discovered on Christmas Eve.
Around half the affected drivers had a temporary fix put in place but the remainder were left trying to explain to passengers why they were being asked to hand over more cash than was on the meter.
Chairman of Dundee Taxi Association Graeme Stephen said drivers had lost thousands of pounds as the Christmas and New Year tariff was around half as much again as the usual fare.
"The public weren't happy because they didn't see the festive tariff on the meter so they thought we were overcharging," he added.
Temporary arrangements were made to ensure the problem was not repeated over the New Year holiday period but new computer chips will have to be installed by the end of the week, Mr Stephen said.
02.41am - 04.01.2011 Had Enough - Dundee, UK Report This
Sorry, but I really dont have alot of sympathy here, the cost of running a taxi doesnt go up at the festive time, only the amount of profit the driver/owner of the taxi makes off the user. Must add up to an excellent hourly rate!!!!
08.14am - 04.01.2011 Joe - Perth, Scotland Report This
I'm surprised that it's even legal for them to ask for more than is on the meter? Surely if they haven't got the meter set right then it's tough luck on them regardless of where the fault lies - accept the lower fare or stay off the road until their meter is set correctly.
08.51am - 04.01.2011 Mary Orr - Dundee, UK Report This
Given the cost of my recent taxi journey, taxi drivers must have a higher hourly pay rate than our local doctors, dentists and businessmen!!
06.05pm - 04.01.2011 icedbun - Fife, Scotland Report This
What makes a higher fare a festive rate? I can't see more profit for nothing extra 'festive' at all.
Add a comment