Taking a taxi can be a little nerve-wracking, especially if you're in a different city. In this situation, it can be hard to familiarize yourself with the proper protocol. Even if you've taken a cab as your main mode of transportation for years, you may still have trouble with taxi cab etiquette.

Know Where You're Going

Before you get into the cab, you should know where you are going. Knowing the exact address is best because the driver can input the information into a GPS. If you don't know the exact location, you should know a nearby cross-street or landmark. For example, letting the driver know that your hotel is two blocks east of Times Square will probably be sufficient.

You should also pay attention to where you are going while you're in the cab. This will make you more aware of when your destination is near. Even if the address is in the GPS, it is still considered common courtesy to let the driver know that your destination is coming up soon — when it's a block up on the right side, for example.

Be Wary Of Eating And Drinking In The Cab

A taxi is not your vehicle. It represents the driver's livelihood and business. If they have stains all over the interior, they will be less likely to get as many customers as they would otherwise. While eating and drinking might be fine when it's your car, you should have respect for the property of others. Typically, a cab driver has sole responsibility over that car. That means they are the ones paying for cleaning services if you spill your coffee.

Be Prepared To Tip

Don't be surprised if the cab driver expects a tip. In 1947 the New York Times recommended tipping drivers 12.5%, and that number has gone up to 15% in recent years. That 15% should serve as a base. If they help you with your bags, give you helpful tips on how to get around the city or recommend good restaurants or attractions to visit, you should consider upping the percentage to 20%.

Taxi cab etiquette all boils down to being polite. Put yourself in the driver's shoes and act how you would want others to act. This means not being too hands-on with your significant other in the back seat, not demanding that they go faster in rush hour traffic, and generally showing respect for the driver's job and vehicle.

To have cab take you to a destination, contact a company like Richmond Cabs Ltd.