Taxi Driver Online

Sunday Mercury

October 15, 2006, Sunday

HEADLINE: Cabbies told to fix cars after major faults found

BLACK Country taxi drivers have been warned about the state of their cars - after 11 out of 12 were found to be faulty.

Police and council officers stopped a random sample of taxis in Walsall last week and found a catalogue of trouble.

Twelve vehicles were examined and all but one were found to be unroadworthy, leading to their use being banned.

Defects included faulty lights, brakes, tyres and suspension - with many also pumping out excess exhaust fumes.

PC Joanne Myatt-Jones of Walsall Police said: "People should have the confidence that the taxi they step into is fit for its purpose and will get them to their destination safely. Taxi companies and drivers need to ensure that their vehicle meets all safety requirements."
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