SNEAKY taxi drivers are ripping off vulnerable passengers and charging for simple customer services such as airconditioning and assisting with groceries.
The problem has prompted one of Queensland's largest taxi companies to warn drivers against the practice.
The emailed warning, sent by Yellow Cabs last Friday, said: "We do not charge extra for anyone who has a walker or groceries or (for) putting on heaters or airconditioning. Those who do will be reported."
One driver, who asked not to be named, said he and other drivers had been aware of illegal charges going on for well over a year and had passed on complaints to management.
He said some drivers charged $1.50 per shopping bag.
"The older drivers are disgusted by all the things going on, especially pensioners being ripped off," the driver said. "How low can you go? This is rife in the industry. Customers are complaining to us on a daily basis."
Yellow Cabs general manager Bill Parker would not say if there had been complaints from customers about drivers incorrectly charging extra fees for carrying groceries, helping elderly people to their doors or switching on the airconditioning or heating, instead saying: "There has been no spate of problems".
"It is just a reminder that we will not tolerate any indiscretions," Mr Parker said. "Behind the scenes we are spending a lot of time ensuring we do provide safe conditions and drivers know their responsibilities."
A Department of Transport spokesman said there had been no warnings issued to Yellow Cabs, but any improper conduct would be thoroughly investigated
The spokesman urged anyone with a complaint to call the Taxi Hotline on 1800 183 673.
The Australian Pensioners and Superannuants League Queensland said it had received no reports of drivers ripping off elderly customers.
Mr Parker said Yellow Cabs was working hard to restore its reputation in the community.
He said a $6 million dispatch system upgrade, to go online on June 13, would offer greater security for customers and increase driver responsibility by improving the management and efficiency of its cars.
"It will keep a closer watch on every car out there," he said.
"It is our job to ensure those drivers are acting responsibly and if they aren't we will withdraw our authority (for them to operate a taxi)."
Mr Parker said other messages communicated to drivers were: "Always ask the customer the route they want to go; always take the shortest route, and you must take assist dogs".
