EXCESSIVE HOURS: MP questions DfT minister on low ride-hail fare setting impact on safety and driving tired
An MP has queried the impact of ride-hailing firms setting fares below local taxi tariffs, with questions asked about the effect on driver working hours and road safety.
Tom Morrison, Liberal Democrat Deputy Chief Whip, recently questioned the Secretary of State for Transport on whether the Department has assessed how ride-hailing fare structures could contribute to excessive working hours and potential safety risks.
Responding, Transport Minister Simon Lightwood emphasised that private hire journeys must be pre-booked, allowing passengers to compare prices. He also noted that fare-setting remains a commercial decision for private hire operators, while local authorities regulate maximum taxi fares to protect passengers.
On road safety, Lightwood pointed to existing laws requiring all road users to comply with traffic regulations. He highlighted Rule 91 of the Highway Code, which warns against driving while tired due to the increased risk of collisions. He stressed that drivers who create unsafe conditions could face prosecution.
The Department for Transport provides Best Practice guidance to licensing authorities, acknowledging that driver fatigue and distractions can impact road safety. It advises authorities to implement training and assessments focused on driver behaviour and attitudes.
The discussion reflects growing concerns within the industry over whether low ride-hailing fares lead to longer shifts for drivers, potentially increasing risks on the roads.
Minister Lightwood said: “All private hire vehicle journeys must be booked in advance, which enables passengers to compare prices. The setting of fares by private hire vehicle operators is a commercial matter for the company in question. As passengers may engage taxi services immediately in the street or at a rank, the 263 licensing authorities in England can set maximum fares to protect passengers.
“All road users are required to comply with road traffic law, in the interests of their own safety and that of other road users. Rule 91 of the Highway Code states “Driving when you are tired greatly increases your risk of collision…Do not begin a journey if you are tired”. If road users do not adopt a responsible attitude or if their use of the highway creates an unsafe environment, or causes nuisance, they may be committing a number of offences that can make them liable for prosecution.
"The Department issues Best Practice guidance to taxi and private hire vehicle licensing authorities in England. The increased risk that factors such as fatigue can play in road traffic collisions is highlighted in the Best Practice Guidance. As professional drivers, an appreciation of the effect of distractions and pressures which can negatively influence their driver behaviours is recognised and the guidance recommends that licensing authorities should require drivers to undertake training and/or assessment focussed on attitudes and behaviours.”
