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Flagging down a taxi is one of the first things many travelers do after landing at Cancun International Airport. And while taxis are one of the most convenient ways of getting around town, many travelers might be wondering: how safe is it?
New statistics published by Quintana Roo’s Secretariat for Public Security and Transit reveal that taxis account for over half of all public transport accidents.
In this article, we’ll review the latest figures on taxi safety in Cancun and what travelers can do to make sure their next ride is a safe one.
Up To 60% Of Public Transport Accidents Caused By Taxis
Taxis are a ubiquitous sight across Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean, especially in the face of lacking public transport options.
They’re especially common in Cancun, with millions of travelers using them to reach their hotels or to visit their favorite attractions.
And while most taxi rides are completely safe, fresh figures show that up to 60% of all public transport road accidents involved taxis during the first half of the year.
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According to state traffic officials, 348 road accidents involving public transport vehicles were reported during the first half of the year, with taxis being partly or fully to blame in 218 of those incidents. Taxis far outnumber motorcycles, which caused 44 accidents during that same period.
A new report on road safety also shows that most road accidents occur on busy avenues in downtown Cancun, including Avenida Tulum, Kabah, and Chac Moon. Cancun’s resort zone generally sees fewer accidents due to more police patrols and stricter speed limits.
Authorities have pointed out that failing to keep a safe distance from other vehicles is one of the main reasons behind the elevated number of accidents. Other factors, like ignoring stop signs or speeding, are also to blame.
While the high number of accidents may seem shocking, it’s worth remembering that tens of thousands of travelers and locals rely on taxis to get from point A to point B daily. And just like with any form of public or private transport, accidents can occur.
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Fortunately, officials are committed to improving the safety of Cancun’s roads and have ramped up police patrols in an effort to stem reckless driving. Motorized police units can be spotted across Cancun’s main throughways, including in the hotel zone and near busy intersections.
With arrival numbers on the rise this year and a growing feud over new legislation allowing for Uber, a popular ride-sharing platform, to operate in the city, officials are considering introducing new high-tech surveillance systems later this year to monitor traffic, among other things.
Follow These Important Safety Tips When Taking A Taxi
Most travelers will likely use a taxi at one point or another on their next Cancun getaway, so it’s important to follow a few essential safety tips when doing so.
Travelers should opt for reputable transportation firms and ideally ask a hotel receptionist to order a taxi for them. It’s a good idea to jot down the vehicle’s registration plate as well as the starting time of the journey in case of being overcharged.
Make sure your taxi driver turns on the taximeter and keep an eye on any suspicious behavior during the ride. Some taxi drivers are notorious for using their smartphones while driving, which can increase the risk of an accident.
If you feel unsafe at any time, ask the driver to drop you off in a busy public place. For longer journeys, travelers should opt for private transfers, especially to and from Cancun International Airport.
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