Get ready for a smoother, safer journey! Safe Transport Victoria is launching an exciting new program designed to empower taxi and rideshare passengers.
The new Ride Smart, Ride Safe program provides passengers with information about their rights and the rules and regulations CPV drivers must follow.
Fair fares are the program’s first key focus: if you hail a ride from a taxi rank or off the street, your driver must turn on the meter and use it to calculate the final fare.
The rules are clear: drivers offering unbooked services (hailed from street or from a rank) must have the meter on and use the meter to calculate the fare
A standout feature of the program is the new QR code, an optional initiatives for drivers to place inside vehicles to make it easier for passengers to lodge complaints.
Ride Smart, Ride Safe began at this year’s Australian Grand Prix, where Safe Transport Victoria had a compliance and engagement presence.
Racegoers joined ST Vic for fun and educational games at the ST Vic marquee in the Innovation Hub, while learning more about meter rules.
Safe Transport Victoria safety inspectors were present at Albert Park over the Grand Prix weekend to ensure drivers were properly accredited, vehicles were registered as CPVs, and drivers offering unbooked services were using the meter.
Drivers caught not using the meter risk fines of up to $2,000 and could face other disciplinary action. Drivers who charge more than the maximum regulated fare for unbooked services risk fines of up to $11,855.
Passengers who experience poor behaviour – or a driver not turning the meter on – are urged to note details of the driver and vehicle and provide as much supporting information as possible when reporting to Safe Transport Victoria.
Learn more about the Ride Smart, Ride Safe program at: https://safetransport.vic.gov.au/ridesmart-ridesafe