New York Pedicab Services Blog & News

A crackdown on rogue pedicab drivers in New York City is set to take effect with new rules aimed at preventing passengers from being overcharged. These new regulations, which begin on July 12, will require pedicab drivers to post clear signs with rates charged by the minute and use stopwatches calibrated by the Department of Consumer Affairs. The move comes in response to numerous complaints of extreme overcharging, including one instance where a Japanese tourist was charged $720 for a 20-minute ride. Legitimate pedicab drivers support these changes, acknowledging that some drivers have been taking advantage of customers with confusing pricing. They warn passengers to be cautious until the new rules are enforced, as rogue drivers may try to exploit people while they still can.

For more information:

https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/new-rules-will-soon-bring-rogue-pedicab-drivers-ridiculous-fares-to-a-screeching-halt/

Pedicab drivers in New York City who have been overcharging riders with deceptive fares are now under strict scrutiny due to a new law that takes effect on July 12. This law requires all pedicab drivers to use official stopwatches to time rides, charge by the minute or set a flat rate, and clearly display prices on visible signs. These measures aim to curb the rampant overcharging practices, where some drivers charged hundreds of dollars for short rides. The NYC Pedicab Owners’ Association supports the law, with many drivers already complying by installing meters and preparing official receipts. However, some drivers resist the new regulations, expressing doubt about enforcement. The law was passed after reports of extreme overcharging, such as a Texas family being billed $442 for a 12-minute ride.

For more information:

https://nypost.com/2013/07/01/pedicab-drivers-will-have-to-follow-strict-new-rules-when-it-comes-to-charging-customers/

Avci, a pedicab driver facing 27 charges, admitted to violating a regulation by loading four passengers into his cab when the limit is three but denied other allegations, including illegally adding sales tax to fares. One notable instance involved a Texas family whose $406 fare was inflated to $442.54 due to the unauthorized tax. Avci claimed the tax was automatically added by his credit card processor and insisted he didn’t realize it was illegal until it was reported by The Post. He also blamed his poor English skills for failing to properly report six summonses on his license renewal application. Despite the numerous charges, his lawyer argued they were not severe enough to justify revoking his license. A decision on his case is expected within 30 days.

For more information:

https://nypost.com/2013/06/18/a-hail-of-a-nerve-442-rip-off-pedicabby-whine/

Savas Avci, a pedicab driver accused of scamming tourists by charging exorbitant fares, is facing an administrative court hearing that could result in the loss of his pedicab license. Although he wasn’t initially breaking any laws with his high prices, new city regulations now restrict what pedicabs can charge. The Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) is pursuing action against Avci for allegedly overloading his pedicab, falsifying receipts, and unlawfully charging sales tax—practices that are illegal for pedicab operators. One notable incident involved Avci charging a Texas family $442.54 for a 12-minute ride, which included hidden fees and an unauthorized sales tax. The DCA aims to revoke his license due to these violations.

For more information:

https://nypost.com/2013/04/15/ny-brake-pedi-con/

Osman Zenk, a pedicab operator who previously had his license revoked for allegedly controlling more than 100 pedicabs—well over the city’s limit of 30—can regain his license after a Manhattan judge ruled in his favor. The court decision hinged on the definition of “immediate family,” as Zenk argued that his mother-in-law, Elda Pastor, who runs Cycle Cab Inc. from his garage, should not count as part of his immediate family. Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Joan Lobis agreed, allowing Zenk to reclaim his license. However, city officials still suspect that Zenk is finding ways to bypass the fleet size limit.

For more information:

https://nypost.com/2013/04/10/pedicab-honcho-scores-kin-win/