May 18, 2020
A local taxi firm in Liverpool has recently launched a new initiative to inform passengers why they believe using black cabs are a safe way to travel during the current COVID-19 pandemic. They have fixed decals onto the windows of their cabs with the slogan ‘Use a Black Cab, protect the NHS, save lives’ in a nod to the national campaign the Government have adopted. Here at Cab Direct we fully agree that using black cabs for essential journeys such as to pick up food or medical supplies, or to make way to a key worker job role, is a far safer way to travel than alternative means like on public transport. As we start to ease our way out of the lockdown, black cabs will be more important than ever, giving peace of mind to those who wish to get around without using public transport – especially those who are vulnerable. Our fully wheelchair accessible, purpose-built black cabs – the Mercedes-Benz Vito Taxi and Ford ProCab™ – are perfect for drivers looking to get back out on the road and help those in need.
Partition Protection
Black cabs are unique to private hire vehicles in that they have a partition screen between the driver and the seating area for passengers. This is originally in place for security reasons but has recently taken on a new meaning in becoming a barrier for both parties against transmission of infection. We have seen a number of other spaces like shops and pharmacies install similar Perspex screens to act as protection when the widely publicised two-metre minimum space between individuals is not possible, such as when carrying out payment transactions.
Safer Travel
There are several other reasons that black cabs might be a smarter choice than tubes, trains, or buses for members of the public looking to keep safe while out and about. Taxi drivers and firms all over the country have been implementing strict cleaning regimes to minimise the risk of infection from the virus. Cabbies can clean down their vehicles including seats and door handles after every passenger – something which is entirely impossible to do as regularly on public transport. There is also an option to add substantial space between a driver and a passenger. Travellers at the moment may be asked to sit on the far left side of the vehicle which allows for maximum distance, and this is made far easier in a black cab where there is large passenger area often with six seats, which adds to the gap from the driver cabin.
The Ultimate Hackney Taxi
Mercedes-Benz Vito Taxi comes complete with a partition screen and spacious passenger cabin, allowing both driver and passengers to feel safe in the knowledge they are socially distant and minimising the risk of transmission while travelling. Leatherette seating throughout means that cleaning between passengers can be quick and easy. The wheelchair-accessible ramp means you will be able to pick up any wheelchair user, and the twin electric side steps can help those who require additional support when entering and leaving the vehicle. Whats’ more, we are able to offer Vito taxi at the exclusive pre-reg price of just £39,995 on the road! To find out more, please call 0800 587 9635, email info@cabdirect.com or visit cabdirect.com/vito.
