‘Taxi Cop’ safety checks flag minor meter and tyre issues, but overall good compliance in Bristol
Routine taxi safety checks in Bristol have found most vehicles in good condition, with only minor tyre and meter compliance issues flagged.
PC Patrick Quinton, known as the ‘Taxi Cop’ for Avon & Somerset Police, worked alongside a Bristol Council Licensing Enforcement Officer on Thursday 30 January, to inspect taxis and private hire vehicles around Bath Road and Temple Meads.
Around 25 vehicles were checked, covering key safety and compliance measures. All drivers passed an eyesight test, while additional checks focused on meters, card payment readers and wheelchair ramps in Hackney Carriages.
Two vehicles were temporarily suspended – one due to a tyre issue and the other for a meter fault. Both were resolved quickly, allowing the vehicles to return to service within an hour. The only other concern was drivers not displaying their badges correctly, which was immediately addressed.
PC Quinton confirmed there were no major concerns and thanked drivers for their cooperation during the inspections.
Taxi Cop PC Patrick Quinton said: “I was working with a police colleague and a Bristol Council Licensing Enforcement Officer today at Bath Road and Temple Meads.
“We checked around 25 vehicles, and the majority were in great condition (no dirty plates)
“All PH and HC drivers passed the eyesight test, we were also checking meters, card payment readers and ramps on Hackney Carriages.
“Two vehicles were immediately suspended - one for a tyre issue and the other for a meter issue - but both were fixed and back on the road within an hour or so. The only other issue we found were badges not being displayed properly, so we helped drivers get that put right.
“Overall, not too many serious issues and thanks for your cooperation on these checks today.”
