New pedicab regulations designed to prevent scams and enhance rider transparency have taken effect in New York City. Under these rules, pedicab drivers are required to prominently display their rates on their carriages and time rides using stopwatches calibrated by the Department of Consumer Affairs. The law mandates that charges be calculated by the minute, eliminating per-passenger surcharges and other additional fees. Each operator must also provide information cards that act as receipts, detailing the driver’s name, rate, and contact information. These measures, supported by the NYC Pedicab Owners Association, were introduced following numerous complaints about excessive charges, including rides costing up to $400 for just 14 blocks, and the addition of unjustified surcharges. On the first day of implementation, rates observed in areas like Times Square and Central Park ranged from $2.50 to $4.75 per minute. Pedicab driver Irving Ferreira expressed support for the new rules, noting that they would curb the exploitation prevalent among a minority within the profession.
For more information:
https://nypost.com/2013/07/13/city-rolls-out-no-cam-pedicab-rules/