The Nice taxi unions had addressed the Prefecture about the issue of VTCs as part of their opposition to the UBER app, which allows for the location and booking of chauffeur-driven vehicles via smartphone.
To be honest, this issue is spreading internationally and especially in big cities where the taxi business generates a considerable volume of business, and where this American company (funded by Google) is keen to expand.
But if we take a step back to look at the problem, it is evident that behind the alleged defense of the operational regulations of this public service (should we remind ourselves?), it is indeed a battle of interests: On one side, a corporation, and on the other, an organization relying on technology. A case like many others we have seen.
And, as we can see by reading the Prefecture’s statement below… It is not always those who claim to adhere to the rules who respect them the most!
And what about the clients’ rights, does anyone care?
Prefecture Statement: Control of Chauffeur-driven Tourist Vehicles (VTC)
On May 21, an operation to check chauffeur-driven tourist vehicles (VTC), public road passenger transport vehicles (TRPP), as well as taxis, was carried out at the two terminals of Nice Airport.
During this operation, which took place without incident, about a hundred vehicles (VTC, TRPP, Taxis) were checked.
72 VTCs were checked, of which 5 were fined as follows:
1 for lack of a transport document
1 for using a mobile phone while driving
1 for a worn tire
1 for an unreadable license plate
1 for excessive and dangerous driving.
2 TRPPs were checked, with one being fined for lack of TRP signage
24 taxis were checked, with 8 being fined as follows:
1 for an unreadable meter
1 for lack of fare display
6 for non-compliant receipt issuance.
