Santa’s top tip: use licensed taxis after Christmas parties!

As the jingle bells start ringing and the holiday season (and Christmas Party) kicks into full swing, Guildford Borough Council is reminding residents and revellers to stay safe by using licensed taxis for their Christmas and New Year travels.

With mistletoe, mulled wine, and merrymaking in abundance, it’s easy to get caught up in the Christmas cheer and holiday spirit. But after the last carol has been sung and the last mince pie devoured, it’s important to make sure you get home safely. Guildford licensed taxis are the secure, reliable, and Santa-approved way to travel, ensuring everyone gets home in one piece (even if your dignity got a bit dented at the office party).

Why Choose licensed taxis?

Santa-approved safety: Just like Santa’s sleigh, licensed taxis are subject to rigorous safety checks prior to setting off. Drivers are thoroughly vetted, ensuring they are all on Santa’s “Nice List” by meeting the council’s standards. There will be no Grinches looking to ruin your journey. Using a licensed taxi also means lost items such as presents or phones can be found easily.
Naughty List CCTV: All Guildford Licensed taxis have CCTV to provide that extra level of safety, particularly for individuals worried about getting home on their own. CCTV is there to protect drivers and passengers.
Elf-sized insurance: Licensed taxis are fully insured, protecting both drivers and passengers in the event of Santa’s sleigh landing unexpectedly in front of the vehicle.
Festive cheer with change left over for the January sales: Licensed taxis do not use surge pricing so the fare will be set by the council and you can be sure of what you will pay for your journey.
Stay on the Nice List for next year: If you’re out enjoying yourself and need to get home, make sure you use a taxi rather than placing yourself and others at risk by driving under the influence. You may not be able to avoid a hangover but you will prevent a serious accident and criminal record.

Santa’s tips for using licensed taxis:

Plan ahead: book your taxi in advance, especially on Christmas Eve, to avoid any last-minute dashes.
Check the licence: look for the taxi’s license plate and driver ID before you dash through the snow and climb aboard. All Guildford licensed vehicles display official identification on the rear plate and front doors.
Use trusted services: there is good availability of taxis from official ranks in Guildford town. Head here to get home safety or book with well-known taxi companies or licensed operators that are on Santa’s ‘Nice List’. National App based operators are not licensed by Guildford and not subject to our rigorous standards, including not having CCTV to keep you safe. The council recommends not to use these so that any concerns can be dealt with effectively by us.

Councillor Merel Rehorst-Smith, Lead Councillor for Regulatory and Democratic Services said:

“As we deck the halls and enjoy the festivities, let’s also remember to prioritise our safety. Using licensed taxis ensures a sleigh-safe journey home, so we can all have a holly jolly Christmas. Stay merry and safe, everyone!”

For more information on licensed taxi services and safety tips, visit Guildford Borough Council’s website.

Photo supplied:

Licensed taxi rank in Guildford

Santa’s top tip: use licensed taxis after Christmas parties!