Whether you’re calling one to take you to the airport for a business trip, or hailing one on your way home from a party, a taxi can make traveling from point A to point B a breeze. With winter right around the corner, you may find yourself hopping in a taxi in Ottawa more often to escape the cold, but have you ever considered the importance of taxi etiquette? Proper etiquette can make the ride more enjoyable for you, and for your Ottawa taxi driver, so take note of these taxi etiquette tips:
Wait your turn
If you’re hailing a taxi, don’t get into a car before someone who has been waiting for much longer. If you’re in a hurry, it’s possible that the person may let you go ahead of them, but make sure you ask! Also, most Ottawa taxi stands have multiple taxis lined up. You must go into the first taxi in the lineup. That taxi was there the longest, so you have to use that taxi first.
Be ready with your destination
Of course, you’ll want to greet your taxi driver with a friendly hello, but afterwards you should have your destination ready for your driver immediately, along with any helpful details you can offer, such as intersections, landmarks, or the area of town you’re heading to.
Be polite
Just like any other interaction throughout your day, you should be polite and considerate. This may be especially hard to remember when you’re in a rush and your taxi is stuck in Ottawa traffic, but try not to take it out on your driver. If they help you with your luggage, or assist you in getting in and out of the car, be sure to thank them.
Be careful with any food and drink
You should wait until you’ve reached your destination to eat your lunch, since any mess you make will become the responsibility of your taxi driver. Drinks are normally fine, as long as you are careful and there is a lid. Of course, make sure that you don’t leave any trash in the taxi.
Tipping
Unless your driver was extremely rude or put your life in danger with unsafe driving, it’s important to tip them for their services. Usually 10% to 20% of the fare is sufficient, and most taxis in Ottawa accept payment by both cash and credit card. If your driver was extremely helpful, and helped you carry your heavy luggage for example, a larger tip is a good way to show your appreciation.
Proper taxi etiquette is a great way to acknowledge the hard work that taxi drivers do to make our lives easier, and keeping these tips in mind when riding in an Ottawa taxi is a great way to ensure a smooth ride!
