MEDIA RELEASE
19 January 2018
Taxi Council Queensland (TCQ) has expressed concern following the recent revelation that ridesharing drivers are increasingly declining passengers who possess lower ratings in their system, or who they simply don’t like the look of.
It has been suggested that ethnicity may be linked to low ratings with one particular ridesharing company, resulting in these minority groups rarely being able to secure a driver. Although this is against the company’s policies, it is extremely difficult to prove.
Even passengers who make advanced appointments have no higher chance of securing a ride with ridesharing companies if the drivers in the area at the time decide they don’t want to pick them up based on their rating. Taxi Council Queensland CEO Blair Davies said it is extremely worrying that drivers of these companies are given the power to refuse customers based on their race or on past mistakes which have affected their rating.
“The taxi industry is committed to offering a reliable service for all, regardless of who you are. We do not discriminate based on looks, or because you were having a bad day the last time you used the service,” he said.
“If you book a taxi in advance to arrive at a particular time, we will do everything in our power to pick you up on time so you can arrive at your destination.
“Of course, if a passenger is a risk to our drivers’ safety they are at liberty to refuse their service, however they are specifically trained handle these types of situations effectively.
“Essentially, taxis are dedicated to giving everyone a fair go.”
ENDS