New websites like Kijiji and Craigslist, along with apps such as ‘Uber’ and ‘Lyft’ have made ride sharing a hot topic. For many citizens, the primary concern is whether or not this format of transportation is safe. Unfortunately, the question of safety cannot be definitively answered with a yes or a no. Ultimately, your experience with a ride share may be individually unique with varying situations of comfort. This is one of the main differences between using ride shares and taxis in Ottawa.
Some people have argued ride sharing is by no means a new from of transportation, but rather a modern version of hitchhiking. While it may not be as unrestrained, the fact is it is much more unregulated than that of a professional taxi company. In many cases, ride share drivers must pass only two requirements: meet a minimum age and have a fully working vehicle. In contrast, taxis in Ottawa can only be certified if they meet certain regulations as legislated by the municipal government. According BY-LAW NO. 2012 – 258, “…no applicant for an accessible taxicab driver license shall be issued a license unless the applicant files a Certificate confirming that he or she has successfully completed the Accessible Taxicab Training Course within two (2) years immediately preceding the application.” In addition, taxi drivers employed by a corporate establishment will have an additional set of code of conducts to follow. This allows for a more efficient dispatching process and higher standards of quality and customer service. It also means a regulated taxi operation will provide more consistent and reliable service.
Another grey area surrounding ride sharing is the issue of insurance coverage. Although some ride share apps pledge insurance for drivers and passengers, these policies have been put under scrutiny because of an ambiguity where liability can change coverage. This creates potential instances where drivers and passengers may be held liable themselves in the case of an accident. While it may seem like an after thought, in an unfortunate circumstance having insurance coverage is imperative. If you are opting for a ride sharing service make sure to understand their policies; if there is little to no information regarding this, taxis in Ottawa provide a fully insured alternative.
Unfortunately, because each transaction is unique, one cannot provide a yes or no answer to whether or not ride shares are safe. If you are selecting a ride share, take precaution by doing your research on the driver and/or company and always let someone know where you are going and what time you are expected. And don’t forget, for worry-free transportation, taxis in Ottawa are a reliable source!
