On a bus, sit close to the driver, and ask to get off if anyone makes you feel uncomfortable. Keep any bags or possessions on the window side not to the aisle side, to avoid opportunists snatching it as they leave.
On trains try and pick a carriage with plenty of people already on or near the driver/guard and don’t be afraid to change carriages if need be. As for busses keep hand bags and valuables close to you and not on the aisle side if possible. If you have luggage store it as close to your seat as possible and in line of site if possible, it’s worth keeping an eye on them when others are leaving the train to check an opportunist doesn’t leave with your luggage.
Don’t Get In This Taxi…
Obviously never get in a taxi if the driver appears to be drunk or in an unfit state to drive, or; It doesn’t look roadworthy, Taxi licensees are required to show that their vehicle is mechanically sound.
There’s no taxi meter, this isn’t as straight-forward as it seems. Some local Councils don’t insist on taxi meters. If there’s no meter, agree a price before setting off.
There’s no taxi licence on display, your driver should have a badge on display bearing their image and licence number.
The driver doesn’t know the location of your destination, if the driver is asking you for directions, they don’t know the area.
Someone you don’t know tries to get in and suggested sharing the taxi, it’s not unknown for criminals to act in pairs in these situations.
The driver has jumped the queue to pick you up, it’s not a lucky coincidence. Don’t get in.
Basic Taxi Safety
Whenever you can, pre-book your taxi, or telephone a known local company before you leave the venue. Give a last name and ensure the driver knows it when they pick you up.
Don’t put your bag into the boot, in case you need a quick exit.
If on your own, as soon as you get into the taxi, take down the licence number and text it to a friend. Keep your mobile switched on and close to hand. But don’t spend the journey chatting, keep an eye on the route the driver is taking.
When you reach your destination have your money ready, pay the taxi before leaving the taxi (don’t lean in from outside), also if you are going straight into your home, have your keys out and ready, this can minimise delays in entering when you get to your front door.
Concerned About Your Taxi
If you do speak to the driver, make sure you don’t give away any personal information about yourself (especially about living alone etc.).
If, at any moment, you begin to feel uncomfortable, then ask to be put down in a well-lit area and call for another cab. Don’t feel embarrassed to do this, authentic taxi drivers understand their passengers’ worries. If the driver won’t stop, call the police or start yelling from the window. At the next traffic lights or crossroads, you should be able to use the door handle to let yourself out.
You can also give the address next door or across the street and go into the correct house once the taxi leaves.