Don't risk it - make sure your taxi is properly licensed

With the festive party season now in full flow, people are reminded to plan their journeys out and home so their big night goes without a hitch.

Very often this will involve wanting to get a taxi but, at busy times such as Christmas, demand is always very high and will be especially so this year with other transport options limited.

Wirral Council’s taxi team licenses both vehicles and drivers to protect the safety of the public. Licensing officers carry out checks on drivers to ensure they are fit and proper; they also test and inspect vehicles to make sure they are safe and properly insured.

All licensed drivers are required to display a valid badge and all Iicensed vehicles must display a plate that clearly identifies the vehicle as licensed. The number on the plate can be used as a reference should anyone wish to report a concern to the council’s licensing team.

Don't be tempted to accept a lift off just anyone. If you book a taxi, make sure both the vehicle and driver are licensed - look for the plate on the vehicle and the driver’s ID badge.

Travelling in an unlicensed vehicle or with an unlicensed driver could put your safety at risk; the driver will not have been checked out and the vehicle may be unsafe. You will also not be insured.

Wirral Council will take action against any unlicensed private hire and hackney drivers. It is a serious matter of public safety, not just for passengers but also for drivers.