Wheels within wheels - a guide to using a wheelchair on public transport 2005 (view report contents)
Taxis
Regulations for licensed taxis are in the pipeline but it will take some time before new taxis are introduced. Although regulations have not yet been agreed many licensed taxis are already wheelchair accessible. Other useful features they have may include good lighting (inside the taxi, around the fare window and around the door), easy to use door handles and induction loops.
Other taxis
The new regulations are likely to allow existing taxis to be used for a number of years.
London taxis
From January 2000 all licensed London taxis have had to be wheelchair accessible. There are three versions of the London ‘black cabs’. Key dimensions are:
| Fairway | Metrocab II | TXI &TXII | |
| width of door | 640 | 650 | 800 |
| height of door | 1170 | 1240 | 1370 |
| internal height | 1300 | 1300 | 1400 |
| length of ramp | 880-1540 | 900-1580 | 700-1250 |
| angle of ramp - to kerb | 18-11 | 16-10 | 17-11 |
| angle of ramp - to ground | 28-16 | 24-14 | 29-17 |
TX taxis may also have a swivel seat and an extra step and are fitted with an induction loop. Drivers will help disabled passengers get in and out if asked.
Taxis outside London
Some local authorities will only give new licenses to taxis which can carry wheelchairs. In many cases taxis in these areas will use the same vehicles as in London – see table below for dimensions. Elsewhere they may use adapted people carriers or vans. There are no minimum standards for these, but they are likely to have at least the same amount of room for wheelchairs as London cabs. Some van conversions may be bigger and will take two wheelchairs. To find out what is available in a particular area, contact the local Council's licensing office.
Safety in taxis
Some taxi drivers have been concerned that wheelchairs might not be strong enough to stand up to an accident. However research suggests that you should be safe if you travel in the right position, secure the chair and wear a seat belt. Never sit sideways.
Minicabs
Minicabs, or private hire cars, come outside the proposed regulations, and mostly use saloon cars. However some companies may have accessible vehicles – check with the company: under taxis in the phone book.
Report Contents
Introduction
The law
Travelling
in a wheelchair
Trains and trams
Buses
Coaches
Taxis
Planning & booking a journey
Concessions
Reporting back & complaining
Information, help and advice
Details
of manual wheelchairs
Details
of manual wheelchairs - to be pushed by someone else
Details
of powered wheelchairs
