Taxi Driver Online

PHV's in Watford impounded after council and police operation


Five private hire drivers could lose their licences after they were caught illegally plying for trade.

During a three hour operation conducted by police and Watford Borough Council, drivers picking up passengers without first booking them through their operator were pulled over.

They were then questioned by officers and council workers, who checked their vehicle documents such as road tax, insurance and MOT.

All five vehicles were then impounded as officers were not satisfied they were being driven in accordance with their insurance. Only hackney carriages licensed by Watford Borough Council can pick up passengers without pre-booking.

The drivers, who work for companies in London, Hertsmere and Three Rivers, will now be considered for prosecution by the council. Seven other drivers are also currently being considered for legal action.

Councillor Jan Brown, chairman of the council’s licensing committee, said: “This is the latest in a series of operations under the banner of ‘Altogether..a good night out in Watford’.

“People going out at night should make sure they only use licensed taxis, or genuinely pre-booked private hire vehicles. Passengers who might have used any of the vehicles caught in last week’s operation might not have been insured in the event of an accident, and – particularly in the case of the driver from London – ripped off by drivers who in all likelihood do not know the local area as well as Watford drivers.”

For more information telephone Jeffrey Leib, Watford Borough Council Licensing Manager, on 01923 278503 or email jeffrey.leib@watford.gov.uk

http://www.watfordobserver.co.uk/news/8 ... impounded/

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