THUNDER BAY — Some unlicensed rideshares are operating in the city and potentially putting customers at risk.
The City of Thunder Bay is advising the public to take precautions to avoid an incident similar to what happened last month when a woman was sexually assaulted and robbed.
"We are aware there are some unlicensed rideshares operating ... we're aware of things involved in WhatsApp groups that people are joining, and taking rides from those avenues," said Adam Carruthers, supervisor of municipal enforcement services.
Uride, Roach's Yellow Taxi, and Diamond-Lacey's are currently the only licensed and authorized rideshare or taxi services in the city.
There are also several other specialty-licensed vehicle-for-hire services such as limousines and transportation services for seniors.
All are required to have drivers who are properly insured, have their driving records examined, and undergo a criminal reference check.
Licences for the drivers as well as for the vehicles are supposed to be kept on hand so they can be shown to passengers on request.
"If it's not posted, I'd recommend asking for it," Carruthers said.
He said there have been some other complaints about unlicensed operators.
Members of the public who have concerns should contact Municipal Enforcement Services at 807-577-6536, or online at www.thunderbay.ca/bylaw.
Anyone caught operating a vehicle-for-hire business without proper licensing can face a fine starting at $500, with a maximum penalty of $100,000.
People who continue to operate such a business after being ordered to cease can be fined $10,000 a day.
"Public safety in taxi and ridesharing operations is one of our biggest priorities," Carruthers said. "We want to make sure everyone who gets into a vehicle for a ride can get to their destination safely. Reading the news about unfortunate events in our community, we felt the need to have this information released to the public."
