> But usually with taxis, if you hail one, or call an operat you can ask for a quote?
They can give you a quote but there's no telling if it's going to be accurate or not, as the final price is based on a meter for hail taxis in almost all locations within a defined area. When you get to your destination what you were quoted is irrelevant, you just have to pay the price. So what's the point in the quote?
I'd expect the driver to stop the meter, if it's on its way over the given quote. I'd also be prepared to pay the quote, even if the meter shows less. If not, what'd be the point in getting a quote?
That’s not allowed in most jurisdictions - the driver would lose their licence. They have to drive on the meter and can't barter separately unless it's outside the region.
Interesting. At least in Norway its quite common in my experience for a driver to turn off the meter if they've made a wrong turn or similar obvious mistake that makes the trip go long, were the driver is clearly at fault.
I guess that means that the only way for a driver to give discounts, would be to pay the difference themselves, incurring tax on the discount?
They're a blue collar guy trying to feed their family on a low-wage job with variable income, they have like zero incentive to do so man. They're also gambling that they can potentially intimidate a rider who says they won't pay x price because of a detour, mistake, or misquoted price. The driver could be larger or tougher than the rider, and you're in a small space with them.
I had a larger driver try to intimidate me into giving them a cash tip on top of the one I'd already written in via credit card. (I refused). This is why I never, ever use taxis now
