Taxi cab etiquette may not seem important - but for those who travel frequently, knowing what and what not to do in a taxi cab is very import. From knowing what percentage to tip to knowing how to file a complaint, riding in a taxi can involve walking a line between getting from point A to point B or being asked to step out.

 
Taxi cabs are used for both long trips and quick stops within a city. Whether you choose a well known taxi service or prefer one of the town car cabs, there are some taxi etiquette to keep in mind.

  The key to riding a taxi include having patience, flexibility, people skills, knowing your area, and as always, being nice to the cab driver! You’ll prevent a lot of headache, hassles, and unnecessary stress for that long ride with this preventative plan.

Riding in the taxi can be full of surprises, and adventurous.

When the lights on top of the cab illuminated –cab is empty.

When the lights on top of the cab or turned off –cab is occupied

Hailing a cab: Stand at the curb not in the street and hold arm straight up and straight out.

              (If standing in the street -- what happens, happens)

  You should wait at the curb or be prepared to come out to the taxicab immediately upon its arrival, pay the fare, and enter and exit the vehicle away from the traffic lane so you don't risk injury from oncoming traffic. You should cancel reservations if the taxicab is not needed before it arrives (if canceling after taxi arrives a small tip for the driver’s time is a good idea so the driver will come back another time).

  Taxi drivers aren't rolling in money, it's important to give them a decent tip; what they make in tips may account for a good portion of their overall income.  It’s best to tip a cab driver what you would tip a waiter or a waitress: between 15 and 20 percent of the overall fare. If the cab driver was exceptionally good - if he took a short cut, for example - then tip him more. If he was rude then don't feel too guilty when you tip him less. Tipping the driver is not required but it is customary to do if the driver did his job to your satisfaction.

  Know where you want to go. Make sure you speak loudly and clearly when communicating directions and information to the cab driver; and finish off with "Please."

  When taking a long taxi trip try to get directions before hand, this will give you an estimate for distance, as well as exact roads and locations.

  If you have a route in mind the taxi driver should take it.  If the driver knows a shorter route he should politely let you know, your directions will win out if you choose.

Keep watching the street. Don't let it turn into a wandering ride.

  Different cab companies may charge different rates, particularly in different cities. It’s a good idea to know what you are getting into before you get into the taxi. Instead of just flagging down a cab and giving the driver the address of your destination, ask them how much it will be. They won't likely be able to give you an exact number - unless they have flat rates - but they can easily give you a ballpark figure. If you find yourself in a situation where you need your cab driver to take you to a variety of places ask about an hourly rate. Not only may an hourly rate be cheaper, but it will also free you of the stress that comes from keeping the meter running.

 

  A cab stuck in traffic is frustrating, but it's not the cab drivers fault. Getting angry, frustrated, or huffing and puffing in the backseat isn't going to take care of the jam that is blocking traffic. Instead of growing inpatient with the cab driver over circumstances beyond their control, control your own circumstances: give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination.

 When you get in a cab, make a note of relative information: the cab driver's name, the cab's number, the time, date, and destination of your route. This will help you if want to complain about the service, and it will help you get items returned if you happen to leave something in the cab. Calling the cab company and saying that all you know is that the cab was yellow will probably get you nowhere.

  When you leave the cab, do a quick check to see if you have all personal belongings. 

  If you should realize later you have left something in the cab make arrangements with the driver to meet or plan to compensate the driver for delivering your items, it is the driver’s time you are using.

  Look at the condition of the car; a well-kept car and driver will usually mean a comfortable ride. If you hail a cab and it smells, is dirty, or the driver looks questionable, simply say “Sorry, I’ll take the next one,” and move on! You’re not required to take a cab even if you hailed it yourself.

Always fasten your seatbelt! 
Observe all no-smoking and food/drink rules and signs.

Avoid loud cell conversations or other distracting behavior. Respect the driver's space and the solitude of the cab. If you have to make a business call, talk at a reasonable volume.

  If you approach a waiting cab with more people than seat belts, you cannot be angry if the cab refuses to take all of you in the same car. After all, it is illegal,

And the driver pays the fines not you.

  You have the right to request a radio station, but it’s the driver’s car so your request can be

denied or ignored.  But you do have the right to dictate the volume of anything playing in the back seat during your ride. 

  Limit conversation to what you are comfortable with. If the talk turns awkward, just let it go. Change the subject by asking about the city and local hot spots and history. Taxi drivers are a wealth of information so take advantage of it.

  Drivers quit making passes at ever woman that gets in your cab, and watch the road. Fares do not date taxi drivers!  Driving in two Lanes, recklessly crossing the road, ignoring turn-signal and blowing your horn at other motorists for your mistakes are signs that you need to concentrate more on your driving process and less on your attempts to get your fare’s phone number.

  If you take a wrong turn or incorrect off-ramp that adds additional time and cost to the trip give the fare the difference back. 

  Drivers provide a professional and courteous service.  You must take the most direct route to the customer’s destination, charge meter rates, accept any passenger unless the taxicab is engaged or off duty, and give a receipt when requested.

            Remember, not all taxi drivers are out to get you!

       A cab driver is like you in a way, they to have bad days

  Do report any obvious problems to the cab company, and if you do not get results contact the taxi commission or the code enforcement officer in your area.

In Wilmington North Carolina where we are reviewing the local taxicabs company’s you can file reports at the following locations:

    Wilmington  International  Airport for Airport related incidents, contact the public safety office at 910 -341-4336…..most airport cabs will have compliant forms

City of Wilmington North Carolina contact the code enforcement 

 officer at 910 -343-3628   this is for violations with in the city limits.