Understanding Las Vegas Taxi Service For International Travelers

Posted on: 30 November 2015

If you are arriving at McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas for the first time this vacation season, then it is important for you to feel comfortable about utilizing the local taxicabs. As with other large cities around the world, Las Vegas regulates their taxis to ensure travelers to the city are safe and protected from fraud and other dangers.

With the variation in customs and rules that surround the operation of taxicabs from one country to another, knowing how the system of taxi travel works in Las Vegas will put your fears aside and allow you to travel with confidence. To this end, here are some helpful tips:

Know the Laws Governing Passenger Health and Safety

To protect the health and safety of taxicab passengers and drivers, you are required to wear your seatbelt while you are riding in a cab in Las Vegas and are asked to refrain from smoking. This is for your safety and that of your taxi driver. Unrestrained passengers are a danger in an accident to themselves and others. And, smoking of cigarettes, cigars, and medical marijuana is harmful to taxi drivers as well. It is illegal for your cab driver to smoke in their taxi as well, in order to protect your health.

Know the Payment Types Accepted and the Rate for Your Ride

Taxi companies in Las Vegas all charge the same rate for trips in their cabs. There are also certain extra fees for services like travel to and from the airport. You should never expect your taxi driver to negotiate a fare with you, as this practice is illegal in Las Vegas.

When you accept a ride in a taxicab, you are agreeing to pay the fare at the end of the ride. If you do not have the funds to pay for your ride, then this is illegal and can result in your being arrested. So, before you ever get in a taxicab in Las Vegas, be assured that you have the money to pay for the ride and that the driver accepts credit cards if that is your preferred method of payment.

Understand the Tipping Custom in Las Vegas

It is part of the culture in Las Vegas that you are expected to tip your taxicab driver. While the tip amount varies and is a matter of personal choice, your tip should be larger if your driver provided you with any of the following information to help make your stay in Las Vegas better:

  • current show recommendations

  • current musical concert recommendations

  • sightseeing suggestions

  • dining location suggestions

Finally, you should also tip your taxi driver extra if you have an excessive amount of luggage or other items that they are expected to help you load and unload. For more information about taxi cabs, contact a taxi company such as Union Taxi

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