Do taxis charge by the mile or by time?

Question

I've heard on taxis on tv tell their customers the meter is still running. I know that taxis charge by how far they drive though. I've never taken a taxi in my life and I'm a little confused.

Answer 1

Both.  If you're stuck in a taxi that is stuck in trasffic, the meter keeps running.  They also charge by the mile.

Answer 2

both, that way if it's a short trip, they still make money. Most companies have a certain rate for just getting into the cab and after that the meter starts counting the miles driven.

Answer 3

Time.

Answer 4

The meter charge is a combination of different charges. There is a charge for additional passengers, a charge for items of luggage. If the cab is traveling at more than 10 MPH the charge is by distance if it is travelling at less than 10 MPH it is by time. There is also a minimum charge. The also charge more at night.

Answer 5

It's a combination of both. When the cab is moving, the meter is keeping track of the miles driven. Waiting time is also accumulated. That's why you'll sometimes see the meter advance when the cab is stopped or parked.

Mileage is the dominant factor, however.

Answer 6

By the mile. But if they're sitting in traffic, they go by the minute. Don't worry. It'll be OK.

Answer 7

It really depends on the company.  Most use both.

Answer 8

Taxis charge by the mile. That way if your stuck in traffic they can't charge you unfairly for that.When they say the meters running its just a saying telling you to hurry up.It doesn't mean anything really as far as i know.

Answer 9

both the longer you keep the taxi waiting the more money the meter is going to rack up