Taxi Industry On Taxi & Ride-Sharing Models
The Bermuda Taxi Owners and Operators Association [BTOA] released a statement which they said helps to clarify the differences between ride-sharing and taxi industry models.
A spokesperson said, “As conversations about ride-sharing and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft gain traction on the island, the Bermuda Taxi Owners and Operators Association [BTOA] is taking a leadership role in clarifying the differences between these transport models and highlighting the unique protections of Bermuda’s regulated taxi industry.”
“Ride-sharing, ride-hailing, and private taxis may sound similar, but they are fundamentally different services with very different implications for passenger safety, legal compliance, and service quality,” said Ricky Tucker, President of the Bermuda Taxi Owners and Operators Association. “It is critical that Bermudians understand these differences as the government considers the island’s transport future.”
Defining the Models
A spokesperson added, “Ride-Sharing involves multiple strangers sharing a single vehicle travelling along the same route. Common in parts of the Caribbean and Latin America, this system often lacks formal regulation, vehicle standards, or passenger protections.
“Ride-Hailing apps such as Uber and Lyft connect customers to private vehicles for hire. While they offer convenience, research has shown they can contribute to increased traffic fatalities and leave passengers without adequate insurance coverage or clear legal recourse in emergencies.
“Private Taxis, like those operating in Bermuda, are licensed by the government, inspected regularly, and driven by vetted professionals. Vehicles carry passenger liability insurance mandated by law, and regulated pricing ensuring both safety and accountability.
Safety and Legal Concerns
“International research raises serious questions about ride-hailing safety. A University of Chicago study found that the launch of ride-hailing services was associated with a 3 percent increase in fatal accidents in U.S. cities. Meanwhile, courts in the UK have ruled against Uber for misclassifying drivers and failing to meet transport licensing requirements.
“By contrast, Bermuda’s taxi system is rooted in legislation under the Motor Car Act and Public Service Vehicle licensing framework. This ensures vehicles are inspected, operators are trained, and passengers are protected by insurance in the event of an accident, protections not guaranteed under ride-hailing or ride-sharing models.
Bermuda’s Transport Future
“Despite growing global interest in digital ride-hailing platforms, Bermuda has yet to introduce a legal framework to regulate such services. Current laws governing Public Service Vehicles [PSVs] lack the digital infrastructure, monitoring systems, and compliance mechanisms necessary to safely integrate new models.”
“Without modernised legislation and proper oversight, introducing ride-hailing or ride-sharing would expose passengers, operators, and the wider public to unnecessary risk,” said Ricky Tucker. “Bermuda must avoid repeating the mistakes of other countries that undermined their own taxi industries by adopting new services without first updating the law.”
The Premium Taxi Model
A spokesperson added, “BTOA emphasises that Bermuda’s taxi industry is not only a mode of transport but also an extension of the island’s hospitality.
“Regulated taxis offer:
- “Professional, vetted drivers
- “Fully insured vehicles with passenger liability coverage
- “Safety and accountability under Bermuda law
- “Premium service tailored to both residents and visitors”
“Bermuda’s taxi operators are ambassadors for the island,” said Ricky Tucker. “Our industry has invested decades into building a safe, reliable, and professional service. Any future transport solutions must protect, not erode those standards.”
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