Taxi Rates

A lot of good points made here, thanks to Smith for the videos. Rocky is a fine driver, and is genuine as the day is long.

I have travelled route for many years, and when the small talk starts in the cars, most say slow time of year, not too many tourists, they could mean less people working, but I don't think so.

Maybe that tourist getting in a route to fill the car, merely means the alleged lady/man/local will be getting home quicker because tourist is traveling.

With all that being said there is no need to defend the system, for what it is, or isn't. Furthermore, no need to re invent the wheel either

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Originally Posted by Kevin, PA

I'm a little confused by this? The problem with the free market approach to taxi rides is that the uneducated consumer likely doesn't know what the fair market value of ride is creating an environment of confusion and suspicion that is ripe for the exploitation of some. This is not nessarrily good for business. You're suggestion is to use what is essentially a metered regulated service for better rates. If you're a free market guy then why are you suggesting someone uses the more regulated route taxi system? Also, the gypsy cabs in NYC have nothing to do with the meters and everything to do with the higher overhead costs associated with operating a legal licensed cab. Gypsy cabs in NYC are the equivalent to white plate "taxis" which exists in large numbers in Negril absent any metered cabs. I would'nt suggest a tourist use a gypsy cab in NYC anymore then a white plate in Negril.

It seems to me there is a market for all of the services being discussed. Route taxi's as the cheap public transportation option. Metered cabs for short private transport and chartered rides to meet all other needs. This way the metered service is setting the fair market value rather then the public transportation option as is the case today. All 3 services can still be offered by one driver. If you ask for local fare then you're going to get dropped off at the end of the route if you didn't get off sooner. If you ask for a metered ride you're going to pay the metered fare when you reach your destination. Maybe you want to make a few stops with signifigant idle time etc. In this case you negotiate a chartered ride which would likely be cheaper then paying for metered idle time and/or easier then catching a new cab after each stop to shop, bank, eat or whatever.

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I use the fixed price route taxi system because it is FAR more economical than a charter taxi! That's just smart business, something that a free marketer knows something about..My free market approach applies to things with variable rates/pricing. Don't laugh, but I don't pay retail. Ever. Even department stores have wiggle room when it comes to clothing. You just have to ask. If you don't ask, you can't win! Example:we wanted a room at a fancy hotel in STL for a wine event. We called the front desk direct and negotiated a rate that was almost one third of the rack rate. Then when we checked in, we made nice with the front desk guy and negotiated an upgrade to a one bedroom suite, free wifi and free valet parking. You see, they had plenty of supply, but no demand, so giving me the upgrades cost them little to nothing, but created a loyal guest who will talk them up to anyone that will listen.

The free market approach to goods and services is quite simple...the price will be set at that intersection of supply and demand....a charter taxi will likely shoot you an initial price that is ten times or more higher than a route taxi....if you know what the route taxi price is for your trip, you have all the info you need to negotiate....start with twice the route price and work your way up to where that intersection is...For me, its different. I know what the route fares are and I have a good idea of what the charter rates are. If I need a charter taxi, I am prepared to negotiate and walk away if the price isn't right...there's plenty of charter taxis in Negril.

My comment about the meter was meant to show that it isn't such a good idea in Negril, and really doesn't benefit the consumer. And, being from Manhattan(via Brighton Beach), I will take a gypsy cab if the ride is more than thirty blocks or is off the island. Been doing it for 30 years...and YES it IS about the meter, or more precisely, the lack of one, the makes the gypsy cab a goer for me. That and try to find a cabbie in Manhattan that will take you to Brighton Beach at 2am! YMMV.

All this said, the system works fine in Negril. The route taxis are plentiful during the daytime and dirt cheap. Charter taxis are available for different rides. Also, you can rent a charter taxi by the hour if you want to go bar hopping! Nice to have your driver right there with you!

. If you don't like the rate, use a route taxi, or don't whine about the fare!

I agree Rock robster..I live out in the cockpit country and take route taxis allover-I cant afford a charter everywhere I go nor do I have a car..Of course i have chartered cabs for certain occasions and will cont.. and using meters in Taxis in Jam??? No way-I could just see the corruption starting with that one(ie fixing the meteres, etc-to gain moneatary advantage) My comment about set rates for charters was just a suggestion- Since it seems many new tourists our confused by the system or have just plain been ripped out..It was something I was suggesting to those who are charter- only -for- tourists advocates... Which am not one those. I think the current system is fine..

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Originally Posted by RockRobster

All this said, the system works fine in Negril.

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I agree that the system works fine. I was able to get to where I needed to go just fine. How it could work better is up for debate. You and many others are approaching it from a different prospective then the first time or very casual traveler who doesn't want to taking a cab seem more like dealing with a used car salesman.

Lets just agree it works fine as is and leave it at that.

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Originally Posted by RockRobster

The route taxis are plentiful during the daytime and dirt cheap.

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If you live in Jamaica like, suzengrace, who can't afford an automobile, can't afford a private charter, then (of course), a route taxi is available for her. Whether it be red or white plate.

If your a foreigner, who, cannot afford to rent an automobile during your vacation, cannot afford a charter taxi, then (of course), a route taxi is the only way to go. Again, whether it be red or white plate, "the system works in the favor of both"!

Just keep in mind that locals know the drivers well as they travel during the day to get to work, and travel late into the night. When a red plate is full, or is not going as far as the desired destination, then the risk is taken in a white plate with no passenger insurance. Keep in mind the reason why "white" uninsured plates are on the road conducting illegal taxi services. It's because the people are desperate to put a roof over their heads, food on their tables, and need affordable transportation. White plates are used by foreigners constantly and the risk is usually "unbeknownst" to them. SO, the "system DOES NOT WORK" in everyone's favor. Death with no coverage occurs all the time.

Yes, every bit helps if foreigners take route taxis. All we are saying is as long as foreigner's understand "the system", whether it be red or white plate taxis, just don't use them because they are "dirt cheap".

Just give a little more than the "dirt cheap" rate if you have it. No discrimination or "heated argument" here please. Jamaica is a beautiful place to vacation and the whole economy is based on tourism. It's Jamaica's bread and butter.

Best regards to all.

I have seen a passenger in a route taxi pay with 100 in phone credit. She didn't have the cash but sent the driver 100 in credit from her phone to his.

When at home I don't live a fivestar lifestyle, so when i visit another country, i try and be myself. I actuallyfeel more comfortable and relaxed living amongst regular people, negril style versus an AI. I feel out of sorts if someone is all yes sir, and trying to pamper me. A white plate taxi is akin to our under ground economy we have at home, no prob mon. By stetching my dollar in negril, by where i chose to eat, drink, and how i ride, i get to stretch the amount of time i can spend in negril. That is a risk i am willing to take. it's a winwin situation. instead of payng all my money to a travell agent, over a 7day period, i spread those same dollars over a 2-3 week span and put them directly in the hands of people who work in Negril. And its no different than at home, i look for cash deals at home, no reciept not just to save money but to help out the many here that have lost the good jobs that have disappeared. kinda feels the same way to me when I grab a white plate from the Hi-lo and the driver tells me, i'm his first fare of the day, and he's only been here acouple of hours. White plate, route taxi, no prob mon. Cheers!!!

Using an illegal taxi is not sound advice. Should an accident occur, anyone hurt will be looking for compensation. As a passenger you would have no compensation. Also, as an active participant in an illegal activity - you now become liable for any damages that others might suffer. If you do not have the cash in hand, you can end up in jail until a court date - which could literally be months off depending on the damages.

There is simply no reason to ever use an illegal white plate "taxi". Canuk Cpl - please think about the dynamics in that "first fare of the day" story - would you be as likely to tip if he said he had been busy all day? Trust me - there is no taxi in the world that makes money sitting idle for a couple hours waiting for a fare. Even the worst taxi driver in the world knows that...

I here ya Rob, we all take risks try driving the speed limit down the 401. Busiest highway in north america, much riskier than grabbing a white plate in negril, and most of us have no choice. In Negril i have a choice, and have no prob with that. I tip based on service only, again my chose. I never was much of one for rules, just ask my mom. Cheers!!!

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Originally Posted by Rob

Also, as an active participant in an illegal activity - you now become liable for any damages that others might suffer. If you do not have the cash in hand, you can end up in jail until a court date - which could literally be months off depending on the damages.

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Held liable for a 3rd party's neglegance. Certainly not the case in the US or Canadian courts but remember this is Jamaica so all bets are off. I assume Rob knows what he's talking about. Any Jamaican Lawyers lurking on this subject?

Canuk Cpl,

You are entitled to do as you want, but to recommend others to do an illegal activity without explaining that they are taking a huge risk of spending time in jail and huge out of pocket expenses is not fair to others. The pocket change you might save using an illegal white plate taxi is not worth the risks involved and it will not be helping the economy in any sort of real way. You would do better to buy a single hungry person a beef patty per day.

Driving the 401, if you are properly insured, does not put you at risk of taking part in an illegal activity and at risk of jail time in another country. If you choose to drive the 401 uninsured, well, that is pretty much equally unsound advice as taking an illegal taxi in Jamaica...

Craig123,

If you choose to take an illegal taxi, you are the one who is paying the driver for the illegal ride. Your money and your intent to secure an illegal taxi is making the transaction happen. You are involved. If someone is hurt and/or property is damaged, not only will you be legally involved, but things could escalate in a matter of seconds should you try to deny your fault. You may be able to claim ignorance of the law in court, but it certainly wont work on the streets if something bad happens. As we all know, tempers can flare when someone is seriously hurt or there is extensive damage to property. And you dont need to be dealing with this nonsense especially when you are vacationing in a foreign country.

To all,

There is simply no reason to ever take an illegal white plate "taxi". The legal taxis are easily identifiable for this very reason. They have red license plates. If you really have to save each penny each day while you are on vacation, the route taxi is there to make your trips very affordable. If you can spare a just a few extra dollars each day, and you like to save time and have the convenience of going where you want when you want, then the charter taxis are there for your choosing.

But there is simply no logical reason to ever take a white plate vehicle as they are not legal taxis and have no license or insurance to transport you anywhere.

Thanks Rob, I think we all appreciate your help and advice. I am sorry if I gave the impression that i was giving any advice, I was only sharing my experience of how I get around Negril. I guess legally speaking if i were to ride in a white plate vehicle, I must now become a friend and not a customer, like i said before i live in a world of grey, where rules are bent. I definitely don't want to see anyones buzz get harshed. Cheers!!!

So hold up, are route taxis red plates? Or, by very definition of being a route taxi, they are white plated?

I'm all for saving money but I am not very putting myself in a dangerous place (financially and legally).

Licensed and insured vehicles all carry the PPV (red) plate and are public passenger vehicles and are for hire either for route or charter.

White is a private vehicle not licensed to carry paying passengers

But what I am asking is, are route taxis licensed and insured? Or are they all white plates?

Rob -

Thank you. Your last response says it all. Hope all will read it several times.

We are concerned about this issue as it shows up repeatedly, offering dangerous advice to newcomer's, which is why we jumped in.

It's an issue that can be "life threatening", and definitely an issue that effects the Jamaican economy.

No "lol" on this subject.

Always with respect, and again,

Thank you!

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Originally Posted by tfw73

But what I am asking is, are route taxis licensed and insured? Or are they all white plates?

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Let me say this again:

Licensed and insured vehicles all carry the PPV (red) plate and are public passenger vehicles and are for hire either for route or charter.

White is a private vehicle not licensed to carry paying passengers

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Originally Posted by tfw73

But what I am asking is, are route taxis licensed and insured? Or are they all white plates?

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All Taxis have red license plates - no taxis have white plates.

All route taxis have red plates - no route taxis have white plates.

All charter taxis have red plates - no charter taxis have white plates.

As a visitor to Jamaica, DO NOT GET IN A WHITE PLATED VEHICLE as they are NOT A LEGAL TAXI

ALL LEGAL TAXIS (Red plated vehicles) are licensed and insured to carry paying passengers. Private cars (white plated vehicles) are not licensed or insured to carry you, a paying passenger.

As Rhodes has mentioned, this is not a joking matter. Should something happen - there can be very serious consequences for you - the paying passenger.

And claiming that you are a friend with a driver will make no difference. You do not live in Jamaica, you are a visitor. How can you prove you are a friend? The burden would be on you. If the driver is acting as a taxi (taking you from point a to point b), then you will be guilty of taking an illegal taxi. The courts will not rule in your favor - you will be considered a paying passenger no matter what you claim to be.

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Originally Posted by Rob

Craig123,

If you choose to take an illegal taxi, you are the one who is paying the driver for the illegal ride. Your money and your intent to secure an illegal taxi is making the transaction happen. You are involved. If someone is hurt and/or property is damaged, not only will you be legally involved, but things could escalate in a matter of seconds should you try to deny your fault. You may be able to claim ignorance of the law in court, but it certainly wont work on the streets if something bad happens. As we all know, tempers can flare when someone is seriously hurt or there is extensive damage to property. And you dont need to be dealing with this nonsense especially when you are vacationing in a foreign country.

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Thanks Rob. That validates my comments. Beware!!!!!! Passengers are or could be responsible for neglegence of drivers (at least street justice). But remember this only aplpies to illegal taxis.

When I travel in my son's car with the white plate I carry copies of my title, TRN, my old residency and work permit and copy our adoption papers.

If you can't produce that type of proof you are participating in an illegal activity.

Good info Rob! We always try to travel in "red plates". Not sure why Canuck Cpl chooses to use "white plates" when there are so many red plated route taxis to choose from? I don't think the fare could possibly be any less than the legal route taxis...

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Originally Posted by Rob

All Taxis have red license plates - no taxis have white plates.

All route taxis have red plates - no route taxis have white plates.

All charter taxis have red plates - no charter taxis have white plates.

As a visitor to Jamaica, DO NOT GET IN A WHITE PLATED VEHICLE as they are NOT A LEGAL TAXI

ALL LEGAL TAXIS (Red plated vehicles) are licensed and insured to carry paying passengers. Private cars (white plated vehicles) are not licensed or insured to carry you, a paying passenger.

As Rhodes has mentioned, this is not a joking matter. Should something happen - there can be very serious consequences for you - the paying passenger.

And claiming that you are a friend with a driver will make no difference. You do not live in Jamaica, you are a visitor. How can you prove you are a friend? The burden would be on you. If the driver is acting as a taxi (taking you from point a to point b), then you will be guilty of taking an illegal taxi. The courts will not rule in your favor - you will be considered a paying passenger no matter what you claim to be.

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I am assuming that last part was for the guy who rides in the white plates. I do not nor do I want to. I just wanted to make sure the route taxis were licensed and insured. I will not put myself in harm's way, financially or otherwise.

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Originally Posted by tfw73

But what I am asking is, are route taxis licensed and insured? Or are they all white plates?

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RED PLATES are taxis - charter and route. WHITE PLATES are private vehicles. If you get into a car with a white plate, that's like hitch hiking and taking a ride from a stranger. You wouldn't do it at home, don't do it here. Safety 1st.

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Originally Posted by Craig123

Held liable for a 3rd party's neglegance. Certainly not the case in the US or Canadian courts but remember this is Jamaica so all bets are off. I assume Rob knows what he's talking about. Any Jamaican Lawyers lurking on this subject?

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I'm not a lawyer but I am definitely with Rob on this one. The TOURIST will always be viewed as the one most likely to have access to CA$H. Especially if street justice prevails. You just never know what the consequences may be and it is not worth the risk. The Taxi drivers with the red plate have taken the proper precautions, paid their dues, fees & insurances and deserve your business.

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Originally Posted by SweetSue

RED PLATES are taxis - charter and route. WHITE PLATES are private vehicles. If you get into a car with a white plate, that's like hitch hiking and taking a ride from a stranger. You wouldn't do it at home, don't do it here. Safety 1st.

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That is the answer that I was looking for. Some posts made me think that the route taxis were illegal (the white plate cars) so I wanted to clarify it. I wouldn't want to even attempt trying a route taxi if they were the white plated cars.

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Originally Posted by SweetSue

I'm not a lawyer but I am definitely with Rob on this one. The TOURIST will always be viewed as the one most likely to have access to CA$H. Especially if street justice prevails. You just never know what the consequences may be and it is not worth the risk.

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That being the case, people might want to re-think renting scooters and cars also. This thread could be bad for the rental business. :)

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Originally Posted by Craig123

That being the case, people might want to re-think renting scooters and cars also. This thread could be bad for the rental business. :)

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Only if you've illegally rented that scooter or car...:)!
Legitimate rental companies will be fine.

Oh lord, just when I thought our long taxi thread nightmare was over...:)

Such a long and heated thread for such a simple topic. Red plates only. Within the route, pay the route rate. Anything else negotiate the fare before you get in the taxi.
I have brought dozens of newbies to Negril and with those simple instructions no one has ever complained of being ripped off or confused.

Bless...
Ed

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Originally Posted by Bnewb

Only if you've illegally rented that scooter or car...:)!
Legitimate rental companies will be fine.

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OK. So street justice will only be applied in the case of illegal circumstances. I understand now. Thanks.

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Originally Posted by SweetSue

RED PLATES are taxis - charter and route. WHITE PLATES are private vehicles. If you get into a car with a white plate, that's like hitch hiking and taking a ride from a stranger. You wouldn't do it at home, don't do it here. Safety 1st.

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Kind of crazy to expect not to take a ride with a friend...EVER? I get the point. BUT: c'mon. I mean. One of the hotel owners was very kind last reach and gave me a ride to the cambio on his way in to town. Are we "friends"? I guess. But we aren't chillin' at each others' kids' b-day parties...at some point...it's just a freakin' ride...no disrespect to anyone....but I didn't check the plates.

I got a ride with NegrilBob once too. (haha ok, pretty dumb...jk Bob) Is that "illegal?"

Anyyywayy, for my next reach, I want to take a route taxi to Sav, and meet my friend Bigga from Shades there and then proceed with him to Belmont....he's JUTA registered...so...all cool there, but I can cut the costs some if I take a cab to Sav, I think.

Anyone have any experience route taxiing to Sav? Costs etc?

What about the free shuttles to the restaurants? None of these are red plates are they? Are we breaking the law then?

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Originally Posted by Rob in Kansas

What about the free shuttles to the restaurants? None of these are red plates are they? Are we breaking the law then?

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Seastar's shuttle has a red plate

The liability insurance for the establishment can cover anyone who who is employed at that establishment. This is standard practice.Also, the free shuttle is just that, a free shuttle. You are not paying the transport so you are not a paying passenger.

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Originally Posted by brasi

Anyone have any experience route taxiing to Sav? Costs etc?

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I've gone to sav several times between my two trips. the total cost one way is about $270J... $100J from the beach/cliffs to the taxi stand... then $170J to sav

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a traveler who doesn't want to have taking a cab seem more like dealing with a used car salesman.

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exactly. this is the very reason i don't deal with charter taxi's.

It's not confusing to me, i just loathe higgling. Loathe it. i find the 'bargaining game' unpleasant and stressful, each person trying to dance around the other, to arrive at that intersection of supply and demand; especially when you know good and well, that said ride should not be costing 25.00 $USD - i don't even want to start with some a these drivers who automatically begin way high cause they know that's what some of the public will bear, and has borne. Also not interested in saying no to a too-high fare, and keep trying more cabs until i find one that will take 'my' price. ugh. what a prekka. i'm about keeping it simple: see the taxi, get in it, and go. I know some people do love the bargaining thing, but for me it's one giant PITA; the whole concept puts a damper on my energy and mood. And it's probably the ONE "local custom" i'm not interested in, anywhere i go, whether it be Jamaica, Trinidad, or Mexico.

So for me, if there's ANY simple system already in place with fixed rates, that's what i'm using. .... i get in the route taxi with $100J bill visible in hand, so they know that I know the system, and hand it over when I disembark; sometimes i don't even talk to the driver, esp. if he has a full car. imho, the purpose of a taxi is to provide a simple service - a ride from one location to the other; not a tiresome (and time-consuming as well) negotiation every time i step into a vehicle. ( did i mention i HATE higgling? lol)

now if there were some kind of fixed-rate charter system (or at least close to fixed-rate; maybe 'generally accepted' posted rates) I would use it. But until such time I'll be using the route system. Which seems quite a good business -- as SweetSue says, it may only be $J 100 per leg, but with the taxi full as much as possible, it adds up. So i can't say I feel that using them is in any way 'taking advantage' - it all adds to driver's income.

and btw i also utilize courtesy, i'm aware that local residents are priority passengers.

give them a good tip of you need, but a price is a price, regardless of who is riding. We don't set the rate, they do.

You will find as many "bandits" in JUTA as you will on the beach!