Why are taxis allowed in bus lanes?

[55palfers]

Firstly, I don't think bus lanes should exist. UK motorists pay a huge amount of tax and should be entitled to use 100% of the available road network.

However, why are taxis allowed in them? Usually there's only one passenger and it's quite often a rather elderly diesel vehicle.

Surely it's just like a private car carrying one person to their destination and should be shown no greater favour than any other road user.

[55palfers]

Your Dad said:

55palfers said:

UK motorists pay a huge amount of tax and should be entitled to use 100% of the available road network.

Just remind me, which tax pays for the road network?

There's £40 billion (7% of all UK taxation??) collected from motoring related taxes - I reckon you know the answer.

[55palfers]

swisstoni said:

I'd class taxis as a form of public transport so can't see a big deal.

...but if the taxi isn't carrying a fare?

[55palfers]

Janesy B said:

Mr Snrub said:

It's even worse when they aren't even carrying a passenger. I agree with the OP, they're run by private companies or individuals so why should they be allowed in?

Some bus companies are privately so I guess they're not allowed to use them either?

I can totally see how having taxis sat in traffic will really help draw tourists and business to London.

55palfers said:

...but if the taxi isn't carrying a fare?

So someone waiting for a taxi has to wait longer because it's stuck in traffic and can't use the bus lane?

a) There is a world outside of London by the way.

b) What about the hundreds of drivers waiting in congested traffic due to 50% of the available road being off-limits?