Authorities Find List of Fake Taxi Prices

DESPITE the 32% increase in taxiprices that went into effect last month,some taxi drivers continue to charge upto 43% more than the allowed amount,the Public Services Regulatory Authority(ARESEP) warns.ARESEP officials last week found anunofficial table of taxi prices listing faresfrom central San José to other parts ofthe city that is being distributed amongtaxi drivers. The prices are considerablyhigher than what would be charged if themeter, or maría, were used. For example,the 11-km trip from San José north toHeredia is ¢3,330 ($6.80) if the meter isused; however, the illegal table lists theprice at ¢4,750 ($9.70).Taxi drivers often insist that themeter is not used on longer trips betweenprovinces, but this is illegal, according toARESEP. The meter should be usedunder all circumstances, including tripsfrom hotels and malls, betweenprovinces, and on weekends and holidays.The only exception is officialorange taxis to or from the airport.The first kilometer in a taxi ride is¢330 ($0.67). Each additional kilometeris ¢300 ($0.61). Prices have increased upto 100% since August (TT, Aug. 19, Nov.11).Passengers can file complaints forany anomalies with ARESEP by calling220-0102 or 800-827-3737 (800-8-ARESEP)or faxing 290-2010. Complaintsshould include the passenger’s name,identification number, phone number,taxi license-plate number and the date,time and place of the incident.