Press Release

PUC Approves $2,700 Settlement With Philadelphia County Paratransit Service for Violations

Published on 5/19/2011

Filed under: Transportation and Safety

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today finalized a settlement with Germantown Cab Co. Inc. for violations of the Public Utility Code and Commission regulations.  

The Commission voted 5-0 to adopt the proposed settlement, which fines the company $2,700 for several violations.  Chairman Robert F. Powelson issued a statement.

Several inspections by Commission enforcement officers of the company’s vehicles were conducted in 2009. 

During the inspections, several violations were found, including:

·failing to have the proper name or registered insignia and the proper number of the Certificate of Public Convenience identification markings on each side of a vehicle;

·failing to display its complaint decal while the vehicle was in operation;

·an unsecured battery;

·two improperly calibrated meters resulting in fares that are higher than the tariffed rates on file with the Commission;

·an inoperative meter;

·missing complaint decal;

·missing PUC numbers on both fenders;

·an improperly calibrated meter that resulted in fares that are lower than the tariffed rates on file with the Commission;

·an inoperative right front turn signal;

·failure to post tariff rates in the vehicle;

·failure to have at least one headlamp operative on low beam setting; and

·company drivers lacking proper licensing.

By law, companies are required to hold a certificate of public convenience from the PUC in order to transport property, passengers or household goods within the state. Holding a certificate of public convenience ensures that the company has met all of the PUC’s safety and insurance standards.

Germantown Cab Co. provides paratransit service and has a certificate of public convenience for call or demand authority in Philadelphia County.   

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases, audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Docket Nos. C-2010-2113563; C-2010-2116414 and C-2010-2123058

Contact:

• Press Secretary
  717-787-5722