In honor of International Taxi Driver Day on March 22, the Lebanon Police Department is
conducting a Taxi Safety Awareness Campaign during February and March. For the next two months, LPD will conduct surprise taxi inspections and enforce violations of the Lebanon taxi ordinance.
LPD has received citizen complaints that some taxis are operating without a city license. City licensing requirements are intended to protect Lebanon residents from unsafe taxi operators.
"If you get in an unlicensed cab, you are getting in a car with a stranger who has not undergone a police background check, and a vehicle that has not been inspected for safety," Police Chief Jerry Harrison said. "We will not tolerate violations that jeopardize the safety of our community members."
Local ordinances require taxis to have insurance to protect passengers and the motoring public in case of a crash. Traditional personal insurance may not provide coverage in an unlicensed cab.
Licensed taxis must have the full name of the taxi company displayed on both sides, the driver’s city license number on the sides and rear of the vehicle, and a sign on top that reads “TAXI.” Legitimate cabs will also be clean, properly painted, and undergo an annual safety inspection by local police. Taxi operators must have a valid Missouri Class E driver’s license, a criminal background check, and a driver history check.
If a taxi is not properly marked or the operator refuses to show a city taxi license, Lebanon police urge residents to think twice before getting in. Police advise reporting unlicensed cabs by providing a vehicle description and license plate number when possible. For your safety, do not enter an unlicensed cab.
For more information, contact the City of Lebanon Clerk’s Office at (417) 532-2156. Application forms can be picked up at Lebanon City Hall or downloaded at www.lebanonmissouri.org.