In line with the government’s roadmap, there are steps that we must take to help ensure we come out of lockdown and ease restrictions safely and with caution. Children and teachers went back to school on 8th March after being homeschooled for three months and, so far, evidence suggests that there has been only a slight increase in positive tests carried out during the second week back at school, ending 20th March.
The next step was the 29th of March (when most schools start to break up for the Easter holidays). Evidence shows that it is safer for people to meet outdoors rather than indoors due to covid particles spreading and being blown away by the wind. So from the 29th March, outdoor gatherings (including in private gardens), of either six people or two households, were also allowed. Additionally, the England wide ‘stay at home’ rule ended on 29th March but many restrictions still remain in place. The latest easing of restrictions will make it easier for friends and families to meet outside.

The upcoming step to take place on 12th April is the opening of non-essential retail, personal care and public buildings. Indoor leisure facilities will also reopen as well as most outdoor attractions including outdoor zoos, theme parks, and drive-in cinemas. In line with the ‘outdoor’ rule, hospitality venues will be allowed to serve people outdoors (either six people or two households). But, there will be no need for customers to order a ‘substantial’ meal with alcoholic drinks and there will be no curfew, although customers must order, eat and drink while seated with table service. In addition, events will be allowed to go ahead too – the number of people able to attend weddings, receptions and commemorative events such as wakes will rise to 15, while funerals can continue with up to 30 mourners.

With a significant amount of businesses opening up on this date, cab drivers should expect to see a sudden demand for their services to help passengers get around London.

So what should you expect in terms of travel?

There are a few rules surrounding public transport that need to still be followed and obtained by the general public. TFL requires these rules to be followed at all times:

• Plan your journey in advance and, where possible, travel when it is quiet.
• Wear a face covering over your nose and mouth, unless you are exempt for age, health or accessibility reasons.
• Maintain social distancing where possible.
• Follow signs, listen to announcements and pay attention to staff.
• Wash your hands before and after your journey.
• Carry hand sanitiser or use sanitiser points at stations.
• Use contactless or Oyster to pay for your travel.
• Follow government advice for safer travel and check the safer travel information sheet.
• Make sure taxi or bus windows are kept open to ensure a good supply of fresh air into the vehicle at all times.

In addition to TFL rules, the Government advises that you should:

• Try not to touch anyone or anything when you get in the car.
• If you own the car make sure you clean it after every use.
• Do not share taxi rides with people outside of your bubble, household or people (rule of six) you are with. Although, sometimes you are allowed to share a taxi with others if it is for work.
• Listen to any instructions the driver gives you.
• Make sure you have enough time as your journey may take longer than usual.

Are you prepared?

Whether you’re a driver who needs to fix new perspex or plastic shields for covid safe regulations and protection or you’re a passenger who is raring to get into a pub garden, make sure you follow all instructions. The government and TFL have put these rules in place to ensure we all do our part and continue to stay safe.

All taxi companies and drivers are being asked by TFL to put protective measures in place. This includes ensuring face coverings are worn by drivers and letting passengers know that they must wear theirs too. The latest Government advice is that, although face coverings are unlikely to prevent you from getting the virus, they could help prevent you from giving it to others – which is why we all must do our part to keep everyone safe and protected.

With the sudden increase in demand for cab services, it’s imperative that the safety guidelines are met by cab drivers and their passengers to reduce the spread of covid.

How can we help with your taxi insurance?

At Quotax Insurance, our promise is to provide London black cab taxi drivers with friendly and efficient service, helping owner-drivers and fleet proprietors find a competitive taxi insurance quote.

Our very competitive rates, along with our relationships with a wide-ranging number of specialist insurers mean that we are well placed to provide the perfect taxi insurance for London’s taxi drivers.

We also understand that your taxi is your livelihood – if it’s not working then neither are you. Find out more about our taxi insurance policies here, or give us a call to speak with an expert on 0208 691 9691.