When enjoying travel, we often rely on taxis to get us from one place to the next. While many countries have taken steps to ensure taxi operators conduct business fairly, there are many places where taxi scams are quite common. Here, we’ll take a look at several types of taxi scams, plus we’ll provide some insight into avoiding and dealing with these rip-offs.
Avoid Unlicensed Airport Taxis
When you land in an unfamiliar place, the first thing you want to do is collect your luggage; the second thing you want to do is get to your hotel or other destination. In many places, taxis of all kinds can be found circling like sharks in a tank; it can be tempting to hop into the first car that stops for you. Instead, take your time and look for a taxi marshal who can tell you how much a taxi ride ought to cost and point you in the direction of a licensed taxi.
Look Out for the Note Switch
In some parts of the world, note switching is common. Here’s how it works. You ask for a price, and the driver tells you. You hand him a piece of currency, and he hands it back right away, stating it is not enough to cover the price of the fare. Embarrassed, you select a larger note than the one you just got back, and the smiling taxi driver gives you some change in return. Unfortunately, you did give the driver the proper currency the first time; he just happens to be adept at switching one bill for another, so it looks like you made a mistake. To keep this from happening to you, hold up the note you’re paying with so the driver can see it. Keep hold of it and ask for your change before letting go.
Don’t Take A Long Ride in the Country
The “long ride” taxi scam is a favorite with drivers all over the world. Though it’s obvious to anyone who knows how best to navigate a certain city, most of us are at least a little bewildered when first arriving in a new city. To distract you, the driver will point out famous landmarks, chat with you, and discuss all kinds of things. Meanwhile, you’re taking a circuitous route instead of just going from point A to point B. This is a tough scam to avoid, but if you carry a map and point to your destination, most drivers will see that you won’t be fooled easily, and they’ll get you to where you want to go.
If The Meter’s Out of Service, Find Another Taxi
A very common taxi scam involves a meter that’s not working or out of service. Some dishonest taxi drivers can be extremely adept at providing reasons why their meters are not working, but when it comes time for you to pay your fare, expect to pay a higher price than you would for a metered ride. Check to be sure the meter is working before letting a driver take you anywhere. If he gives you a price you like, go ahead and take a ride; in most cases though, it’s best to simply choose a different cab.
While taxi scams don’t break the bank, there is no reason you should fall for them. You can usually research taxi rates before going on a trip; this lets you get an idea of how much you ought to be paying to go a certain distance. While most taxi drivers are honest and hardworking, some really do want to take you for a “ride.”