The LPHCA’s message is that ‘pre-booked’ minicabs, chauffeurs and taxis are inherently extremely safe, especially from operators that have been independently graded and visited by us. All pre-booked private hire vehicle journeys are recorded under law at a licensed operating centre.

Private hire vehicles (minicabs and chauffeurs) cannot be hailed in the street, they must legally be ‘pre-booked’ with a licensed operator in a licensed operating centre, only licensed taxis (Hackney Carriages) with distinct ‘taxi’ signage and a ‘taxi -meter’ can be hailed for hire.

Anyone who approaches the public in the street offering a car or cab services is acting illegally and may well be a ‘bogus cab’ or ‘illegal tout’. Never get into such a vehicle or deal with someone who approaches you in the street, you could be in extreme danger. Always pre-book private hire vehicles, and always check the credentials before getting into any vehicle.