The use of CCTV cameras in Liverpool's black cabs has been declared a resounding success by its local LTI taxi dealership.
Liverpool's owner-drivers - who must use purpose-built taxis like the LTI GX4 and the Metrocab which already have bulkheads protecting the driver - have claimed a dramatic reduction in abuse and attacks against them following the installation of the hi-tech surveillance systems.
Launched last year, the "ICU" CCTV camera systems from Taxifix, one of LTI's nine dealerships, were initially part-funded by the Liverpool Chamber of Commerce.
Available in four packages - bronze, silver, gold and platinum - the systems provide increased security to meet the requirements of today's professional taxi driver running the traditional hackney cabs, which have the bulkhead and central locking.
As a taxi driver for five years, William Blain didn't hesitate to install a gold package CCTV camera system from Taxifix.
William said: "With false insurance claims on the rise, it didn't take me long to realise the benefits of CCTV.
"People see the screen and immediately reassess their intentions.
"It took Taxifix only a few hours to install the system and provides me with added levels of security."
Also feeling safer following the installation of a CCTV system is taxi driver Kevin Brown.
"Since installation, the camera has instantly resolved a number of insurance disputes," he said.
"It captures footage that provides vital evidence when making a claim.
"I would certainly recommend the systems to other taxi drivers who want to travel in safety."
Damian Lynch, Taxifix managing director, said: "As Liverpool continues to celebrate its Capital of Culture status, the safety of taxi drivers and their passengers is of paramount importance to us.
"Our CCTV packages protect drivers who feel increasingly exposed to violent attacks from unruly passengers.
"It's these passengers who will certainly think twice about their behaviour if a quality CCTV system is installed.
"We've also had tremendous feedback from passengers, especially women, who now feel a lot safer travelling in a taxi.
"These systems not only increase security, they also resolve insurance problems by giving a taxi round-the-clock surveillance by covering the vehicle inside and out."
