I have quarreled with cab drivers who clearly chose a longer route to get more money. I have also quarreled with cab drivers who refuse to break a bill, hoping for a bigger tip. For instance, the fare was $12.00. I would have given the $12.00 fare and tipped maybe $3 max, but after I handed over the $20.00, the driver said he had no change. I demanded my $8.00 change and told him my plan was to give him $3.00 and take the $5.00. He tried it again. When you take a cab, have a pen and paper handy. Or fake it with the palm of your hand if you don't. Sit and tell him you need to write down his information. Tell him he's going to be reported and he'd better not try anything, or it will make matters worse. Especially if he keeps the meter running! If he freaks, and you want to back down, you still have the info and can report him if you want. It's your choice, but would you accept the same treatment from any other resource you pay for?

IF it's a situation like your friend, where the driver is trying to dump you so he can get onto his next fare more quickly, you can lay down and play dead, or let him know that YOU know what he's up to, and proceed with writing down his info. If he freaks and you want to pursue it, let him know you're going to get to the dispatcher with all the points where you were picked up and dropped off. That one worked for me. Yeah, there was a lot of cussing and whatnot, but I didn't have to drag a heavy suitcase a block and a half!

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