A recent TikTok went viral which amassed a staggering 9.4M views and 947.8K likes sharing a popular taxi scam that takes place at Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris. The creator advised that there are people who take advantage of tourists who arrive at the airport arrival gates by approaching them and offering a taxi to take them to Paris city centre. However, they will charge upwards of 120 euros for what should be a 62-euro journey, the creator explains.
Similarly, one user in the comments advised tourists to ‘never take a taxi anywhere if they approach you first’.
Specialist taxi insurance broker, ChoiceQuote, a Gallagher company, has compiled tips on useful ways to avoid being scammed by taxis abroad.
1. Use a reputable company/provider
When travelling, it can be challenging to identify which taxi companies are reliable in the local area. It is advised to do your research prior to arriving in your holiday destination. You can also ask the airport information desk or your hotel reception for advice on which providers are best to use.
If you are unable to do so, take extra care when looking at the taxi branding or markings on the outside of the vehicle to ensure that they hold the correct licence. If the vehicle is unlicenced, there is a higher possibility that you may be scammed.
2. Ask what the charge is likely to be before setting off
Similarly, it is a good idea to check the local meter rates of the local country. This will give you a rough estimate of how much the journey is going to cost. Additionally, you can ask the taxi company for a quote to limit the chance of being unexpectedly overcharged for your trip.
3. Write your destination in the local language
It is always advised to make a note of your desired destination in the local language to avoid any possible miscommunication resulting in being taken to the wrong location, at no fault of the driver but just a misunderstanding due to potential language barriers.
4. Check the route on a GPS
A popular taxi scam abroad is that drivers will purposefully drive a longer route if they’re in a metered vehicle to be able to charge riders more for the journey. This is especially common with tourists as the assumption is that they will not know the fastest route to their destination.
It is important when travelling in a taxi in a location which you are not familiar with to check the route on a GPS to ensure that the driver takes you the best route possible. This will ensure that you are not paying more than necessary for your journey.
5. Check the card machine
If you choose to pay by card, remember to always check the card machine before you pay. Some drivers have been known to ‘accidentally’ overcharge passengers on their credit or debit card without their knowledge. For example, upon reaching your destination you may be charged €600 for a €6 journey.
Derek Henry, Managing Director, at specialist taxi insurance broker ChoiceQuote comments: “With many Brits jetting off to seek some sun this time of year, it is important to do some planning and remain vigilant to avoid falling victim to these taxi scams abroad and losing your travel money.
It is important to always do your research and only use licenced taxi providers of the countries you’re in. Doing some quick research prior to going on holiday helps ensure that you’re not caught out on taxi scams. It is a good idea to know which scams are most prevalent in the area, so you are aware of what to look out for. Similarly, for a wide variety of countries you will be able to research whether the taxi company is registered with their prospective local authority. It is always advised to take some precautions so make a note of the number plate and taxi registration number prior to setting off. This means that you can refer back to the specific vehicle and driver if needing to report any issues.”
If you need any more information, please let me know.
Many thanks,
Ella
About ChoiceQuote
ChoiceQuote is a trading name of Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered Office: Spectrum Building, 55, Blythswood Street, Glasgow, G2 7AT. Registered in Scotland. Company Number: SC108909.
ChoiceQuote Insurance Services is a specialist insurance broker with offices in Manchester and Liverpool. With 25 years’ experience in the industry, ChoiceQuote is one of the leading providers of motor trade, courier, and taxi insurance online. ChoiceQuote doesn’t just sell insurance – they are committed to putting their customers and their vehicles first, no matter the business challenge.
For full regulatory and legal disclosure please visit the Gallagher website.
About Gallagher
Gallagher is the brand name of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE: AJG) — the global insurance broker, risk management services and consulting firm headquartered in Rolling Meadows, Illinois.
In the UK, Gallagher has 7000 employees specialising in risk management, and (re)insurance solutions, for corporate, commercial and personal customers. Through a regional network of branches based in communities across the UK, and its specialty London market operations, Gallagher offers tailored insurance programmes and coverage for both UK and international clients.
It is also one of the UK’s leading employee benefit and reward, employee communication and financial planning consultancies and is dedicated to providing local service and support to businesses, backed up by national industry specialism and global reach.
Gallagher offers client service capabilities in more than 130 countries around the world through a network of correspondent brokers and consultants.
For further information, please visit www.ajg.com/uk
