Taxi scams are very common across the world and it is tourists who are likely to be affected. The licensed airport taxi drivers work hard and make the honest effort to make a living. They are professionals and go through rigorous tests before taking to the wheel. Unfortunately, tourists fall prey to the drivers and operators who are not professional and think of wicked ways to separate the money from you.
Taxi Scam stories are common unless you recognize them!
You might have heard taxi scam stories from your friends and relatives who travel very often. Travelers also share their stories on travel articles, guidebooks, and forums to help people stay alerted and aware of the surroundings around you.
Should you stop hiring a taxi?
Not at all! The people of Detroit often prefer hiring an airport taxi to shuttle through the city. It is also the most convenient and logical mode of transportation available in the Detroit city. So, when you are in an unfamiliar place, it is better to stay alerted and make use of the taxi services offered by reputed taxi companies.
Do not fall prey for the most common taxi scams
It is better to stay ahead of the games played by dishonest taxi drivers. If you are new to Detroit, taxi drivers might choose the longest route to reach your destination. This eventually results in high fare. Taxi drivers sometimes refuse to pay you the change. Sometimes the drivers refuse to Turn ON the meter and charge you extra. When you have no idea about the charges and fares, you end up paying more than the actual amount. You must be prepared and recognize the dishonest taxi drivers around Detroit.
Involve in Research before you start your trip
As you plan your trip, ensure you familiarize the routes and learn about the taxi charges, hotel stays and more. You can inquire the fares from the airport to the hotel and to the different attractions you wish to visit. The Michigan State and the Detroit city commission publish their taxi fare schedule on the various website. You can also read travel books and guides to learn the charges and fares.
Familiarize the routes through Maps
Maps are the best way to plan your trip. Learn the various ways to get from one place to another. The maps help you to understand the shortest distance and give you information about the traffic and the functionality of different roads. Sometimes the shortest way may not be the best way so enquiring the best routes from the hotel or from any of your friends who are in Detroit will help you reach you destination on time.
Don’t forget to calculate the waiting time
You will be charged extra for every second the taxi gets stuck in traffic. The wait time is not predictable so the best way to reduce the waiting charges is to choose the routes that do not have slow moving vehicles.
Carry your map, notepad, and camera along
As soon as you board the taxi, mark down its number. Ask the name of the driver, note it down, and track the taxi you are traveling. Keep marking the famous places and keep yourself updated on the routes. If there is a deviation, discuss it with the taxi driver and make sure you, complaint it to the relevant company after you leave the taxi. This helps your fellow travelers to travel safely in Detroit.
What does the license look like?
Every taxi should have a license that follows the rules and regulations of the state and country. If you are traveling to Detroit, you must be aware of identifying the difference between licensed and unlicensed taxi.
How do you wish to pay?
Whether card or cash, make sure your taxi driver accepts the mode you wish to pay. Carry enough change so that you can avoid paying extra. Save your taxi receipt for further clarifications.
Among the ways specified, if you still do not feel comfortable with the taxi, it is better to get out of the taxi and hire another one. Hop on for a comfortable, safe and inspiring ride.