Multiple Cancun Taxi Drivers Have Licenses Suspended And Revoked For Bad Behavior 

Last Updated 1 year ago

News about taxi drivers in Cancun is pretty much a daily event, as they have become more and more aggressive since Uber was given the go-ahead to operate in the city.   

Alleged attacks on Uber drivers, interfering with Uber passenger pickups, blocking traffic from getting to the airport, and even forcing tourists out of Uber vehicles are just some of the stunts taxi drivers have pulled in the last several months.   

Actions like these have led to multiple Cancun taxi drivers having their licenses suspended and revoked for their bad behavior.   

The Decision That Started It All 

At the beginning of the year, the official announcement was made that Uber drivers could legally operate in Cancun without having to have the same concessions as taxi drivers.   

Taxi drivers feel that this gives an unfair advantage to Uber drivers because it costs them less to operate.   

The lower operating costs mean Uber can charge less, and it’s hard for taxi drivers to compete.   

@iamsalem2 #stitch with @livvvraeee based on my experience I totally understand how these people felt. I hope everyone finds a way to coexist. #mexico #cancun #uber #taxis ♬ original sound – Ajanae’

The Extent Of The Problem 

Not only are taxi drivers unhappy about the fairness of the ruling, but aggressive toward Uber drivers, according to reports.   

There have been cases of Uber drivers being physically attacked for picking up passengers.   

While no tourists have been seriously injured, they are being affected in other ways, like being blocked from getting to the airport and being prevented from getting in an Uber vehicle.   

@janiyamarrie Uber in Canun #cancunvacation #uberincancun #cancuntraveltips #royaltonchiccancun #whattodoincancun #nightlifeincancun #thingstodoincancun ♬ City Boy – Burna Boy

The Law Steps In 

Back in June, officials announced that taxi drivers were going to start being sanctioned for their aggressive and disruptive behavior.   

Then, in August, it was announced that taxi drivers acting aggressively could even face prison time.   

Now, as incidents continue in the vacation destination, nearly 20 taxi drivers’ licenses have been either suspended or revoked.   

@victorjuarez7797 taxis drivers in cancun holding uber drivers and riders hostage #cancun #taxis #uber ♬ Tú Eres una Celosa Yo No Soy Celosa – Ingrid Laien & Los del fino

Ongoing Investigations 

With almost 40 cases already resolved, resulting in the suspension or revocation of 18 licenses, officials are still working on more cases.   

A total of 67 cases are currently being worked on, out of just over 100 that officials started with.   

The 15 suspended licenses are for taxi drivers who participated in the blockades that prevented the mobility of other transportation providers.   

The Likelihood Of The Situation Changing 

While the sanctions being doled out might give some pause to taxi drivers before acting aggressively, it’s not likely that the situation will end completely.   

At least not until taxi drivers feel like the competition is fair again.   

For those that want to continue operating, though, this will surely be a warning, and will no doubt weed out some of the aggressors.   

Is It Safe To Take A Taxi Or Uber? 

Tourists still use both Uber and taxis when visiting Cancun, so both options are generally safe to use.   

You won’t be able to be picked up at the airport by an Uber because taxi drivers and private transportation providers have it on lockdown.   

But you can use Uber in town and taxis are everywhere, just beware that taxi drivers may try to prevent an Uber from picking you up or dropping you off at your destination.   

Best Way To Get From The Airport To Your Hotel Right Now  

The best way to get from the airport to your hotel is by private transportation, and it doesn’t cost much more than a taxi.   

You can have a driver waiting for you when you arrive at Cancun Airport and don’t have to deal with all of the taxi/Uber drama.   

There are numerous companies that offer this service and it’s a much more comfortable way to start your Cancun vacation. 

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