FYI, it’s against the law for private-hire drivers (like those who use Uber and Grab) to pick up kerbside or taxi stand passengers without prior bookings. But apparently some still do that. According to The Straits Times, since 2013, the Land Transport Authority has investigated 35 alleged cases of private-hire vehicles picking up customers illegally.
Passengers aren’t the ones complaining, but the National Taxi Association has raised this issue with the authorities, who are taking enforcement actions. Several taxi drivers also claim to have seen private cars waiting at places like nightclubs, shopping malls and roads leading to airport terminals, in the hopes of getting passengers.
While it’s unclear from the LTA whether it’s illegal for a private car to put up a ‘taxi’ sign, it’s a definite no-no for them to pick up any customer hailing them on the street.
“Anyone who operates an unlicensed public service vehicle, or causes or permits a motor vehicle to be used as one, is liable to a fine not exceeding $3,000, or imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or both,” the LTA said. “The vehicle used may also be forfeited.”
By the first half of next year, private-hire cars will have to register with the LTA and put up decals so they can be easily identified on the roads. Like taxi drivers, they will have to do medical tests and background screenings, sign up for a vocational-licence course and go under a demerit point system.
