Unlicensed Drivers and Operators 

Minicabs that operate illegally are not monitored by or answerable to anyone, therefore there are no guarantees for passenger safety. Illegal minicabs may not be roadworthy and people travelling in one would not be insured in the event of an accident. As they tend to operate in areas where they know passengers will be desperate for a cab, they may charge random and excessive fares because the passenger might be too intoxicated, tired, or by this point can't be bothered to argue.

A common scenario occurs where after having a good night out tired and desperate to get home, they may not know where the nearest taxi rank is and public transport would have stopped. Up pulls an unlicensed minicab and it seems like a good idea to hop in. However, often the driver does not know where they are going or may drive the long way just to charge the passenger more. They may drive dangerously and finally charge a ridiculous amount for what should have been a short and simple journey. Unwitting passengers often feel intimidated or sometimes are actually threatened by the driver into paying just so that they can get away. Is this what you want from a cab journey? The responsibility falls on all of us to be aware of how and with whom we travel and to squeeze out the unlicensed minicab drivers and operators.

It is thought that men take unlicensed minicabs because they do not consider the danger, while women choose them as the lesser of two evils. Cameo drivers are mature, extremely professional and are experienced in customer care. Women tend to take illegal minicabs to avoid the potential dangers of walking home alone late at night, not realising that riding in an unlicensed taxi is an equal threat.

Always look for the green and white discs in the front and back windows to see that the minicab that you are getting into is licensed. Cameo will always display a name board either on the side window or sun visor. If you didn't order one, don't get in it; even if it is a licensed minicab. They should not be touting for business off the street. This is illegal and bookings should only be recieved via a Licensed Operator, this also applies even if you know the driver personally or otherwise.

Always used a licensed taxi Plan ahead. When going out, make sure you know how you are going to get back home and who you are going home with. It is better to plan your transport options while you are still sober and have your wits about you. Cameo initially is an Airport Specialist but does undertake Central London and other types of bookings please contact us for a quote. Finding yourself alone miles from home at 2:30 in the morning is a situation you want to avoid. Book in advance. Pre-booking a taxi will avoid last-minute desperate decisions. Book with a known firm that someone you know uses regularly.

Keep taxi numbers handy. Keep about three numbers stored in your mobile and keep a separate copy elsewhere in case you lose your phone. If you are out at a venue and do not have any numbers, ask a member of staff to recommend a licensed firm. Do not accept lifts from strangers.

Find out the price. Get a quote for the cab fare over the phone so that you can set aside enough money. Private hire minicabs are not required to have meters and there are no price limits, so always confirm the price again before getting in. Cameo will quote the cost when booking is placed and will confirm.