Task
Read the text. Mark the sentences T (true) or F (false).
1 New York taxis are all the same model of car.
2 A medallion number has four numbers and one letter.
3 An off-duty cab won't pick you up.
4 You should stand in the street until a taxi stops for you.
S When you get in a taxi, the price starts at 40 cents.
6 You pay per minute if there are problems with traffic.
7 Taxi drivers like to be paid in cash.
NEW YORK TAXIS
New York taxis provide an essential service to New Yorkers and tourists for getting around the city. There are over 12,000 yellow medallion taxicabs so It doesn't take long to see one.
What does a New York taxi look like?
New York taxis come in many different shapes and sizes, but to be official taxis they must be yellow. They must also have a special code called a medallion number: one number, then one letter, and two more numbers. A bronze badge with the same code should also be displayed on the hood. Only taxis with the above are legally licensed to pick you up!
How will I know when a New York taxi is available?
It's all in the lights! When just the centre light illuminates the medallion number, the taxi is available to be hailed. When the centre light is off and both sidelights are on (illuminating the words 'Off Duty'), the taxi is off duty and won't stop for you.
How to hail a New York taxi.
First, try to hail a taxi in the direction you are already going; it saves time and money. When you see an available taxi, make sure it's safe and step off the pavement whilst holding your hand up high. If for any reason you don't get the driver's attention, step back onto the pavement and wait for the next available taxi and repeat the process. It's as simple as that.
New York taxi fares.
Once you step into the cab the meter will be turned on. This is called the 'flag-drop fare' and is $2.50. After that it will cost you 40 cents for every 400 metres, or 40 cents per minute if you are stuck in traffic.
There is a flat-rate charge of $45 from Manhattan to JFK Airport.
If you're happy with the journey, you should tip your driver between 15% and 20% of the total fare. Paying by cash is preferred, however all taxis now accept credit cards.