Thursday, April 25, 2024

Taxi driver attacks passengers who asked him not to use phone

There are no statistics to back up the claim, but personal observation by this correspondent has led to the conclusion that taxi drivers are among the worst drivers in Mexico.

Not only are they ill-trained but habits such as texting and speaking on cell phones while driving — some even watch videos on dash-mounted screens — put many people at risk.

But complaining doesn’t necessarily accomplish anything, as a couple of passengers in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, discovered this week. When they asked the driver to stop using his phone and focus on driving instead, he didn’t take the request calmly.

Instead, he physically assaulted them. The passengers got out of the vehicle with the aid of passersby and their attacker fled the scene.

The unidentified driver and his cab — number 02-968 — are being sought by state traffic police in the resort destination after a formal complaint was filed.

Traffic regulations forbid the use of mobile phones while driving except when the driver is using hands-free devices or a speakerphone.

Source: Quadratín (sp)

Have something to say? Paid Subscribers get all access to make & read comments.
Mexico City water authority workers clean out cisterns atop an apartment building.

Mexico City mayor reports on status of wells supplying Benito Juárez borough

1
Martí Batres reported on Monday that the wells are clear of contaminants and that authorities are now focused on cleaning residue from cisterns.
Photo of suspect seated handcuffed in police truck bed with a blurred out head

Canadian tourist attacked in downtown Mérida

6
A man whom authorities believe was suffering from mental problems struck the woman with an ax, but her injuries appeared not to be life-threatening.
Conductor standing in doorway of Maya Train railroad car

When will the Maya Train be completed? Another delay announced

2
Bridge construction on the southern part of Section 5 will avoid damage to caves, but delay the railway's completion, says AMLO.