Taxi law specialist, James Button, has recently released an article regarding Coronavirus and taxis in which he recognises the taxi industry as a vital part of our transport infrastructure. Despite the fact that there is currently a downturn in the use of taxis, they will remain an essential form of transport for those that need to attend hospitals, GPs and shops.

James Button also provides some useful advice for drivers which include:

• It is ultimately the decision of the hackney carriage or private hire vehicle driver to decide if they are happy to continue providing their normal services considering the potential risks.
• If a driver is suffering from the symptom of Coronavirus, a new, continuous cough and/or high fever, they should not continue working and follow government guidelines to self isolate.
• Although it is obviously not possible to disinfect a vehicle after each passenger, frequently cleaning areas which are often touched such as door handles and seat belts will help improve the environmental safety of your vehicle.

Hackney carriage and private hire drivers, whether employees or self employed, must adhere to the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. Both driver and proprietor have a responsibility to ensure, to the best of their ability, that the vehicle is safe.

You can read James Button's full article here. If you look at the conclusions on the last paragraph, page three, Mr Button is openly recognising our industry as being a vital part of the transport infrastructure.