1. Identify Which Cabs Are Available for Fares
Probably the biggest mistake tourists make is trying to hail a cab that has passengers or is off- duty. You can identify a working cab by looking at the roof light on the top of the cab. There are two parts to it. One part is a middle number called the medallion. The other part says, "Off Duty."
*If the medallion and the off-duty lights are on, the cab is off-duty and is not picking up passengers.
*If all the lights are off, the cab has passengers and is unavailable.
*If just the medallion (the number in the middle) is lit, then the cab is available to pick up a passenger.
2. Choose Your Position Wisely
First, you'll want to stand on the side of the street so that traffic is flowing in the direction you want to go. There's no point in hailing a north-bound cab if you want to go south. The cab will pick you, but you'll be paying extra fare as the taxi circles the block to get turned around.
Find a place where cabs can see you. In general, street corners are the best. The cab will have plenty of time to see you and if they get stuck at a light, you can cross over to them. Don't try to hail a cab from the sidewalk or between parked cars. Remember - this cab is probably cruising fairly quickly and he isn't going to see you hiding between parked cars while he's trying to dodge traffic, keep an eye on the lights and also listen to his dispatcher. So make it easy and be obvious!
3. Step Off the Curb and Raise Your Arm
But when you step off the curb, don't step into oncoming traffic! Be safe. Also raise your arm high and proud. Whatever you do, don't whistle or shout, "Taxi." The cab driver isn't going to hear you over his radio and everyone on the street is going to know you're a tourist.
4. Make Eye Contact
If you see the correctly lit roof light and have done the above, make eye contact with the driver as he approaches. He should give you a little nod that he's seen you and should signal that he's pulling over. (Note: Should signal, but not necessarily.)
5. Enter Curbside
It sounds obvious if you're alone. However if you're in a large group, make sure everyone crawls across the benches. A cab driver can be fined if you enter the taxi street-side.
6. One Exception to the Off-Duty Sign
Sometimes you can hail an off-duty cab but only if your destination is on the way to the cab garage. The cab will stop, ask you your destination and may or may not take you. It doesn't hurt to try when its raining!
Ben Klein works in various roles at 230 Fifth. He enjoys the sights and sounds of big cities and finding new places to eat. 230 Fifth offers some of the best outdoor dining in Manhatten and lounge for those looking for a great spot for a fun evening. Located in midtown, 230 Fifth is the largest outdoor Rooftop Garden in Manhattan.