Section 168: Assistance dogs in taxis
Effect
546.This section places duties on drivers of taxis in England and Wales to transport a disabled person’s assistance dog, for example, a blind person’s guide dog, and allow it to stay with the passenger without making any additional charge. Under section 20 of the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982, regulations may make provision corresponding to sections 168 and 169 for Scotland.
547.A driver of a taxi who refuses to carry an assistance dog commits an offence that is punishable by a fine of (currently) up to £1,000.
Background
548.This section replicates the main provision contained in section 37 of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995.
Example
A person with an assistance dog hails a taxi. The driver must not refuse to transport the assistance dog and must let it accompany the passenger in the taxi.
