The current maximum fine of US$1,274 (HK$10,000) and six month’s jail time for first-time offenders stays, but repeat offenders will be subject to a maximum fine of US$3,185 (HK$25,000) and a year behind bars.
The Hong Kong government is cracking down on the notoriously bad service doled out by many of Hong Kong’s taxi drivers with a new demerit system.
Almost half the complaints about transport services since 2013 have been about taxis, with 1,200 driver prosecutions per year.
Common complaints cover refusing to take a passenger, overcharging, not taking the most direct route, soliciting and altering or defacing meters.
“In view of the concern of the community on taxi service quality in recent years, and rising complaints on taxi drivers’ malpractices, the government has reviewed the current penalties … with a view to strengthening the deterrent effect and enhancing taxi service quality,” said a spokesperson at the Transport and Housing Bureau.
The current maximum fine of US$1,274 (HK$10,000) and six month’s jail time for first-time offenders stays, but repeat offenders will be subject to a maximum fine of US$3,185 (HK$25,000) and a year behind bars.
A demerit points system will encompass 11 offences, with the six most serious offences accruing five or 10 points per offence. Drivers who rack up 15 points in two years could temporarily lose their licence, for three months for first-time offenders, six months for repeat offenders.
The Association of Taxi Industry Development is behind the penalty system. It also wants the government to require the installation of CCTV systems in every cab for gathering evidence. However, this is up to individual taxi firms, according to the government.
Bad service has driven passengers to alternatives like Uber, which the taxi industry has strongly opposed.