Taxi Driver Online

21 Mar 2008

Cocoon for hire drivers

A BIRMINGHAM firm has won approval for a new screen to protect minicab
drivers from attack.

The polycarbonate screen, made by Handsworth based Cab Safe, can now
be installed in private hire vehicles, shielding drivers from troublemakers
in the back, after winning the backing of city licensing chiefs.

The licensing committee agreed that that it was disturbing that the £450
screens were now thought necessary by some drivers.

Coun Bruce Lines (Con, Bartley Green) said: "These are very sad times
that even private hire drivers, who have to be booked by a named
passenger, are worried for their own safety."

The screen, which can be fitted to most car makes, is similar to those
already used in black cabs and taxis.

The committee expressed concern that customers might confuse a private
hire car with a screen for a taxi, and that some might drivers take
advantage by picking them up in the street without being pre-booked.

The chairman, Coun David Osborne (Lib Dem, South Yardley), said:
"There should not be confusion as we do not licence saloon cars as taxis."

Committee members also speculated whether a private hire driver would
spend the money on a screen.

Cab Safe director Hassan Akhtar said that the screen would not stop
bullets, but would repel a knife attack.

The front passenger seat would still being available to customers and not
screened, but added: "Our market research shows that the majority of
attacks come from the back seat, where the driver is unaware of what is happening.

"This will lead to crime reduction, save police time and create a safe
working environment for drivers, and perhaps even encourage more
women into the profession."

Source: BirminghamMail.net
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Clearly they have missed them in the several thousand taxis they license.

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IDFIMH