New Investigation Finds NYC Cab Drivers Charging Proper Rates

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) -- There was some good news Thursday for New Yorkers and visitors who take city taxis.

Officials said a test this month found drivers were charging proper rates, a year after overbilling allegations led to criminal charges against dozens of cabbies.

The City Department of Investigation said investigators posed as passengers to take 20 taxi trips, and all of them were charged at the right rates.

Last September, 59 drivers were charged with ripping off thousands of riders by repeatedly setting meters at a higher suburban rate when they actually were in the city. Officials have said the average passenger overpaid by $5.

Authorities say 49 drivers have been convicted or pleaded guilty so far.

The city's roughly 13,000 yellow cabs now have equipment that alerts passengers if the higher rate is being charged.

Does this investigation make you feel confident you aren't being overcharged by cabbies?  Share your thoughts in the comments section...

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