Frequently asked questions about the hire of a SPSV
When does the hire start at a taxi rank?
When the driver agrees to take the passenger (see below for why a driver might reasonably refuse a hire) – at which point the meter should start. The driver is entitled to start the meter before he or she helps with luggage or assists passengers into the vehicle.
When does the hire start for a pre-booking?
When the driver presents himself to the customer at the agreed time.
What defines waiting time?
For a pre-booked journey, waiting time starts when the driver has presented himself to the customer at the agreed time and ends when the journey commences. Waiting time also covers any requested stops by the passenger during the journey (e.g. to pick up additional passengers). The driver is entitled to leave the meter running in the above cases.
Who is the hirer at a rank?
The hirer at the rank is the person who engages the driver for the journey.
At what point is the hire confirmed?
The hire is confirmed once both parties agree to the terms and conditions of the hire.
What constitutes a pre-booked journey?
When a taxi is booked by telephone, email, fax, text (or any method other than by hailing in the street or engaging at a taxi rank or transport terminal).
What is reasonable refusal of a hire?
Taxi drivers have the right to refuse to carry a passenger requesting to travel in excess of 30km. A driver may also refuse a disorderly passenger.
When would advance payment be asked for?
A driver has the right to satisfy themselves that the hirer is able to meet the fare. Hirers can be asked to pay some or all of the estimated fare up front, or to prove they have sufficient funds to do so. Where advance payment is made, and the estimate is higher than the actual fare calculated by the meter, the hirer is entitled to receive the difference back. Similarly, if the estimate is lower, the driver is entitled to ask for the difference.
Are booking fees discretionary?
Yes, the booking fee of €2.00 for pre-booked journeys is charged at the driver’s discretion.