A private hire driver in Avon and Somerset has been arrested after crashing his vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, with passengers on board, despite already being disqualified from driving.
The alarming incident was confirmed by PC Patrick Quinton, widely recognised as the region’s “Taxi Cop”, who oversees taxi and private hire enforcement across Avon and Somerset. He revealed that the man was driving a licensed private hire vehicle at the time of the crash.
Already Banned from Driving
Following his arrest on suspicion of drink driving, checks showed that the DVLA had already disqualified the driver and should not have been on the road at all. His private hire licence is now expected to be reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.
The case has raised serious concerns about compliance and enforcement within the private hire trade, particularly how disqualified drivers are still able to access and operate licensed vehicles. Local authorities are expected to step up checks to ensure such cases cannot be repeated.
‘One of the Most Serious Cases This Week’
PC Quinton described the incident as one of the most serious he has dealt with recently. He confirmed that enforcement action is underway and that the case is part of a wider crackdown on unsafe and unlawful behaviour within the sector.
As part of his role, PC Quinton regularly works alongside the DVSA and local council licensing teams to carry out vehicle inspections, assist drivers with concerns, and respond to reports of misconduct.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed when licensing rules are breached, particularly when public safety is at stake.
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