Transport for London (TfL) has stressed to the Capital’s taxi drivers that they must abide by the new law on wheelchair users, or face prosecution.
Announced by the DfT on 7 February, the new law means that from 6 April it will be illegal for taxi and private hire drivers with wheelchair accessible vehicles to refuse wheelchair users, or to charge them more.
TfL says all taxis in London are fully wheelchair accessible, as are a small number of specially adapted private hire vehicles.
Under the new law, taxi drivers found to be discriminating against wheelchair users face a fine of up to £1,000 as part of provisions being enacted from the Equality Act 2010.
Drivers may also face having their taxi or private hire vehicle licence suspended or revoked, as well as facing prosecution. Taxi drivers unable to provide assistance to wheelchair users for medical reasons can apply for an exemption from the new requirements.
The law will also apply to vehicles that are designated to carry passengers in wheelchairs.
TfL will be communicating the change to taxi and private hire licensees across London. Customers will be able to report incidents via TfL’s online complaints process or by calling 0343 222 4000.
15 February 2017