A TAXI boss has vowed to halt extra charges for disabled passengers after a woman claimed she was charged £10 before even getting into the car.
Susan Roelofs, of St George's Street in west Hull, was told she was being charged extra by the Six O Cars driver because the wheelchair had to be accommodated.
Charging extra for disabled people is illegal under the Disability Discrimination Act.
Ms Roelofs, 56, said: "I ordered a taxi last week but he told me I would have to pay an extra £10 but the fare only costs £7.
"I was disgusted when I heard this.
"I didn't think this was right and I spoke to the Equality and Human Rights Commission who told me it was discrimination.
"Why should I pay more?
"If it is happening to me then there are probably others in Hull who are paying more as well.
"I understand taxi drivers have to make a living but they can't do so at the expense of those who are vulnerable.
"Many disabled people rely on taxis to get around so charging extra is really unfair.
"Those who have adapted their taxis have opened up a new set of customers, so surely they can make their money back this way."
Six O Cars boss David Smith says he will act immediately to ensure no other disabled passengers are hit by extra charges.
He said: "I have spoken to Susan, who is happy with the way we have responded and we have reimbursed her.
"Many firms in Hull aren't really aware charging extra is against the law.
"We will not now charge any extra for our disabled customers, even if it means I have to subsidise my drivers."
Mr Smith insists it has been standard procedure to charge extra for wheelchair users but welcomes any move to clarify the situation.
He said: "I have to admit, it doesn't seem morally right to charge disabled users a higher fare.
"It can cost drivers extra to adapt their vehicles, so we will help subsidise that.
"Hopefully, other taxi firms will follow suit and we will all be aware of the legislation."
Mark Baggley, co-ordinator of the Hull-based Choices and Rights Disability Coalition, admits the lack of knowledge over the Disability Discrimination Act is a concern.
He said: "Unfortunately, it is down to the individual to complain in a case like this rather than an organisation and most don't do that.
"A lot of organisations don't seem to understand the law, including taxi firms.
"I could spend my life suing people over a breach of the act and it remains a massive problem.
"It is good the Six O cars are not going to charge disabled people higher fares, but every taxi firm needs to obey the law."
