BU Students Complain of Cabbies Refusing Service

Bob Joseph/WNBF News [file][/caption]

Some Binghamton University students have expressed frustration about downtown taxi service.

In some cases, students say drivers have refused to pick up fares because the ride wasn't going to be long enough.

Binghamton University senior Rebecca Lisoski said the refusal of service has been a problem for her and for other students she knows.

Lisoski was assaulted January 31 as she walked with two other students near Hawley and Exchange streets.

Although she and her friends weren't refused a ride prior to the confrontation with three other people, Lisoski said on prior occasions drivers sometimes wouldn't provide service because the requested ride was "too short."

Binghamton Mayor Richard David and Binghamton University President Harvey Stenger have heard such complaints and have expressed concern about the situation.

David said the city is reviewing issues surrounding taxi service to determine what steps might be taken to ensure that rides are available when students need them.

Taxi service now is regulated by Broome County. James Dadamio, director of the county security division, said drivers are not allowed to refuse a fare because the ride would be a short distance.

Dadamio said the county occasionally receives complaints about drivers who won't take passengers to where they want to go.

People who have comments or complaints about taxis in Broome County may submit the information online. They also may call 607.778.CABS. Riders should provide the vehicle number, the driver number and the date and time of the incident.

For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.