Aberdeen Tightens Rules for Taxi Drivers Assisting Disabled Passengers

Aberdeen City Council has implemented stricter rules requiring taxi drivers to provide medical evidence if they seek exemptions from assisting wheelchair passengers.

The move comes in response to a surge in exemption requests, aiming to ensure fair and consistent application of the policy.

Officials stress that these regulations are critical to maintaining accessible transportation services for all passengers, especially those with disabilities.

Surge in Medical Exemption Requests

Taxi drivers operating wheelchair-accessible vehicles in Aberdeen are required to assist disabled passengers in and out of their cabs.

While exemptions can be granted for valid medical reasons, the council has reported a significant increase in such applications over the past year. Licensing solicitor Sandy Munro highlighted that these requests, which were previously rare, have become increasingly common.

Council members recently held a special meeting to tackle this issue. It was decided that taxi drivers seeking exemptions must now provide official documentation from a GP or physiotherapist confirming their inability to fulfil their duties.

This new requirement aims to prevent misuse of the policy and ensure exemptions are granted only in genuine cases.

Councillor Ken McLeod’s Stance on Accountability

During the council discussions, Councillor Ken McLeod delivered a clear message: taxi drivers who are unable to assist wheelchair passengers should consider alternative employment.

Citing an example of a driver who claimed he would rely on bystanders to lift luggage, McLeod dismissed the excuse as unacceptable. He emphasized that assisting passengers, including handling luggage, is an essential part of a taxi driver’s responsibilities.

McLeod’s comments reflect the council’s broader commitment to upholding service standards and ensuring that Aberdeen’s taxi services remain inclusive and reliable.

His remarks further underline the importance of addressing the needs of disabled passengers while holding drivers accountable for their duties.

Establishing a Baseline for Future Exemptions

The new regulations require drivers applying for medical exemptions to provide evidence from qualified medical professionals, such as a GP or physiotherapist. This approach aims to set a clear baseline for evaluating future applications and discourage drivers from exploiting the policy. By tightening these guidelines, the council seeks to protect the integrity of its exemption process and maintain public trust.

Aberdeen City Council believes these measures will uphold the accessibility and fairness of its taxi services while ensuring that drivers meet the physical demands of their roles. The initiative underscores the council’s dedication to prioritizing the needs of disabled passengers and reinforcing the standards of the city’s transportation system.