A taxi driver has been prosecuted by Harrogate Borough Council for using an unlicensed private hire vehicle and driving without valid private hire insurance.
Harrogate Magistrates Court heard that Anthony Scott was caught following a routine inspection in September 2014.
Mr Scott was observed taking a passenger from Knaresborough to Harrogate in a vehicle that had been formerly licensed for private hire work.
Mr Scott pleaded guilty to a charge of using an unlicensed private hire vehicle contrary to section 46 of the Local Government (Miscellaneous) Act 1976 and using a vehicle without a private hire policy of insurance contrary to section 143 of the Road Traffic Act 1988.
Mr Scott did not receive a penalty for the first offence, but was fined £130 for driving a vehicle without a private hire policy of insurance, with a Victim Surcharge of £15 and £300 towards the council’s costs, making a total of £445. He was also issued with six penalty points on his driving licence.
Councillor John Ennis, Harrogate Borough Council’s Licensing Committee Chairman said: A valid vehicle and valid insurance are essential for keeping the public safe when they are using a taxi. The council conducts regular inspections to ensure that drivers are complying with the conditions of their licence. We will do all we can to ensure drivers abide by the legal requirements and that passengers are taking a safe journey which is covered by a valid insurance policy.
