Navigating the bustling streets of New York City can be daunting, but hailing a cab is a skill every visitor and resident should master. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the city’s iconic yellow taxis:
Identify a vacant cab: Look for cabs with their rooftop light illuminated.
Stand on a safe waiting spot: Position yourself at designated taxi stands or on busy intersections with good visibility.
Make eye contact and wave: Signal to the driver by making direct eye contact and waving your hand.
Finding a Taxi During Peak Hours
Utilize taxi apps: Use apps like Curb or Arro to request a taxi in advance.
Check taxi shelters: Look for designated taxi shelters where cabs often congregate.
Be persistent: Don’t give up if you don’t see a cab immediately. Keep signaling and moving to different waiting spots.
Understanding Taxi Fares
Metered fares: Cabs charge a base fare of $2.50, plus $0.50 for each additional 1/5th of a mile or 60 seconds of wait time.
Flat rates: Some destinations have predetermined flat rates, such as $35 from Kennedy Airport to Manhattan.
Tolls and surcharges: Passengers are responsible for any tolls or surcharges incurred during the ride.
Tips for Hauling a Cab
Be clear about your destination: Inform the driver of your exact destination to avoid confusion or overcharges.
Do not hail a cab in the rain: Cabs are less likely to stop during inclement weather.
Carry small bills: Most drivers prefer to avoid carrying large bills, so have plenty of $10s and $5s on hand.
Tip appropriately: A 15-20% tip is customary for good service.
Taxi Etiquette
Be respectful: Treat drivers with respect, even if they are not friendly.
Do not smoke or eat in the cab: Smoking and eating are prohibited in taxis.
Avoid excessive luggage: Drivers may refuse to carry large or bulky items.
Be mindful of your surroundings: Stay aware of your surroundings and do not leave valuables unattended in the cab.
Common Misconceptions
Myth: All taxis accept credit cards. Fact: While many taxis accept credit cards, some may require cash only.
Myth: Hailing a cab is difficult during the weekend. Fact: Taxi availability is typically higher on weekends than weekdays.
Myth: The more you wave, the faster you will get a cab. Fact: Excessive waving can distract drivers and make them less likely to stop.
Tables for Easy Reference
Taxi Fare Breakdown
Distance or Time
Fare
Base fare
$2.50
Per 1/5th mile
$0.50
Per 60 seconds wait time
$0.50
Surcharges and Tolls
Charge
Amount
Tolls
Actual amount
JFK/Newark Airport surcharge
$5
Overnight surcharge (8pm-6am)
$1
Taxi Availability by Borough
Borough
Percentage of Cabs Available
Manhattan
60%
Brooklyn
25%
Queens
10%
Bronx
5%
Tips for Hauling a Cab
Tip
Benefits
Be clear about your destination
Prevents confusion and overcharges
Carry small bills
Avoid inconvenience for drivers
Tip appropriately
Shows appreciation for good service
Be mindful of your surroundings
Ensures safety and prevents theft
FAQs
What is the best way to hail a cab during rush hour? Use taxi apps or check taxi shelters.
How much should I tip a taxi driver? 15-20% is customary.
Can I smoke or eat in a cab? No, smoking and eating are prohibited.
What should I do if I lose something in a cab? Contact the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) immediately.
Can I file a complaint about a taxi driver? Yes, complaints can be filed online or by phone through the TLC.
What are the penalties for refusing to pay a cab fare? Fines and possible criminal charges.
How can I ensure that my cab is safe? Check for a TLC license plate, look for a clean interior, and be aware of your surroundings.
What is the difference between a yellow cab and a green cab? Yellow cabs are regulated by the TLC and can pick up passengers anywhere in the city. Green cabs are limited to Staten Island.
