DCTC NEWS 
April 2016

Commission Meeting 
 Wednesday April 13 , 2016
10:00 AM

Chairman Ernest Chrappah
 
Free Online Training for Drivers
One of the most important considerations for any business operation is customer service. The way customers feel about their treatment can have greater impact than the cost paid for the service. This is why we have arranged to offer free training through an online portal. But there is more to come. Companies and associations will be provided with a model program to Train the Trainer so that drivers can receive the required instruction. Companies and associations should be accountable for ensuring that drivers who serve the public provide excellent customer experiences in vehicles-for-hire. Besides cultural sensitivity training, other courses to be added to the online training portal include use of the DC TaxiApp, conflict resolution and a review of regulations. Click here to register.
The Passenger Silent Alarm icon will be found on backseat monitors of DC taxicabs
Passenger Silent Alarm
District taxicabs are raising the bar on safety features with the deployment of the Passenger Silent Alarm along with driver safety devices. Riders should look for the readily identifiable red triangle with an exclamation point above the words "Silent Alarm" on their backseat monitor.  So, regardless of the type of payment equipment used in a taxi, the rider will know the familiar symbol can be used to summon assistance. The alert will be received by a dispatch center which will determine how to address and resolve the situation. This Silent Alarm is not a replacement for calling 911 for an emergency or if in danger.  DCTC Vehicle Inspection Officers  deployed on a 24/7 basis are also able to offer assistance and resolve many issues. Watch this video to see how the Silent Alarm works.
Drivers in discussion with DCTC Chairman
Grant Awards
$190,000 in grants have been awarded to District taxicab operators to obtain 19 electric vehicles (EVs). The EVs will be converted to taxis with meters and dome lights and receive H-tags. The addition of these vehicles supports the effort to have more fuel efficient and environmentally friendly vehicles in the District's taxicab fleet while also enhancing customer experiences.  The vehicles to be acquired through these grants are expected to be in operation as taxis by the summer of 2016. To find out more information about grant opportunities go to  dctaxi.dc.gov .  
Contact Information
In order to facilitate communication and access to updates all drivers licensed by the DC Taxicab Commission must provide valid contact information to include a mailing address, a phone number and an email address. No transactions will be conducted without verification of these items. 
Tell Us What You Think
The DC Taxicab Commission wants your feedback. The opinions and insight from the vehicle-for-hire industry, related stakeholders and the general public offer valuable input and are critical considerations that shape policies, proposals and regulations. We want to hear from everyone!   Give Feedback 
DC Taxicab Commission 
2235 Shannon Place, SE, Suite 3001
Washington, DC 20020
202.645.6018