Are taxis allowed to operate during the covid curfew?
During the Dutch curfew, we all have to stay inside. Only people with a valid reason are allowed out between 09:00 PM and 04:30 AM. Are taxis allowed to operate during the covid curfew in the Netherlands? Read this article to find out what the curfew consequences are for taxi travel.
Is there a taxi curfew during the lockdown?
On the day of the press conference in which Mark Rutte introduced the Dutch curfew, many drivers inquired: “Can we keep working during the curfew?”. Also: “I usually start around 04:00 in the morning, and then I often bring people to the emergency room in the hospital. I’m sure we’re exempted from the curfew, right?”
“Last week, you took me to the OLVG hospital. I had an allergic reaction, and you basically saved my life!”
Taxi drivers providing essential services are exempt from the curfew. Therefore, they can still go out and do their work during the corona curfew. Admittedly, there won’t be much work, but taxi drivers are indispensable for some people or at some times. As a result, taxis are allowed to operate during the covid curfew.
Taxi travel in case of calamities during curfew
In case of urgent medical circumstances or calamities, you’ll most probably need transport to the hospital or medical center. If you cannot drive yourself, then taxi transport is undeniably essential.
“Last week, you took me to the OLVG hospital. I had an allergic reaction, and you basically saved my life”, a passenger recently e-mailed us. Fortunately, the taxi driver was quickly on the spot when the lady in question most needed him.
In case of accidents or calamities, you are – understandably – allowed to travel by taxi if necessary. And even during the curfew, we offer fixed prices for every ride. Book your taxi via our fare calculator, give us a call or send a WhatsApp message to book a taxi. We’re available 24/7.
Curfew rules in the Netherlands
The rules about the curfew in the Netherlands are:
By default, everyone has to stay inside between 09:00 PM and 04:30 AM. There are a few exceptions for people who:
- have to go out for work, such as police officers and nurses (with a signed employer’s statement);
- provide medical assistance to people or animals;
- support someone who needs help, such as volunteer carers;
- walk their dog;
- need to travel abroad, for example, because of family circumstances;
- going to a funeral;
- having to attend a hearing of a judge, prosecutor, or appeals board;
- have to take an exam already planned in practical education, secondary education, vocational education or higher education;
- be a guest on an evening programme that is broadcast live;
- having to deal with “catastrophe”, such as urgent medical circumstances like an emergency birth or an accident.
On the website of the Dutch National Government, you can read all the curfew rules.
