Simon Corbell is warning that people are being sent debt collection letters at the instigation of a disgruntled taxi driver for not showing up for taxi bookings.
“It appears that a number of people have received letters claiming that they have booked taxis and then not used their booking,” Mr Corbell said.
“The letter, which purports to be from a debt collection agency, claims that the person who made the booking owes the taxi driver or operator money for a breach of contract.
“The letter states that not paying the debt will affect the person’s credit rating and future employment, and that the person is legally responsible if guests at their house book a taxi and failed to utilise the booking.
“The Road Transport Authority, which regulates taxi services, has advised that there is no legal basis for the claims made in the letter.
“ACT taxi networks say they have no involvement in the letters and do not condone them. It appears they may have been sent by an individual taxi driver. ”
While not using a booking is poor form it can happen for a number of legitimate reasons, not least another taxi driver poaching it.
We’re keen to find out who the taxi driver making these unfounded legal threats is.
Simon advises is you get one of these you should send it to the Office of Regulatory Services, Fair Trading GPO Box 158, Canberra City ACT 2601, and to keep a copy of all letters received and sent.
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* Picture of taxi used for illustrative purposes only, it has no known connection to this scam.