Taxis Fail Safety Inspections in Ribble Valley – Three Suspended

A recent taxi inspection in the Ribble Valley led to three vehicles being removed from service due to serious safety defects. The operation, conducted by Ribble Valley Borough Council's taxi enforcement officers in collaboration with the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), inspected 11 taxis, including private hire vehicles and hackney carriages. While most taxis met the required safety standards, three were found with critical issues that posed a risk to passenger safety.

Similar concerns were raised in other regions, such as a recent case in Liverpool, where a taxi was suspended after inspectors discovered a dangerous tyre. These inspections highlight the ongoing challenges in ensuring taxi safety across the UK.

Safety Concerns Lead to Immediate Action

One Ribble Valley licensed hackney carriage had two tyres below the legal tread limit, while a Blackburn with Darwen licensed private hire vehicle was found with an insecure passenger seat. Both vehicles were immediately taken off the road but later reinstated after the necessary repairs. Another private hire vehicle had a faulty indicator and an ABS issue, which were repaired within six days.

Councillor Ian Brown, chair of the council’s licensing committee, emphasized the importance of maintaining high safety standards:

"The safety of passengers in the borough’s taxis is the priority."

Ensuring Passenger Safety

The council provided safety tips for passengers, advising them to verify drivers’ identification badges to ensure compliance with licensing regulations. Regular checks aim to uphold safety standards and remove unsafe vehicles from service, reinforcing confidence in the local taxi industry.