Question 1

What is the "Unlicensed Driver Overcharging Outside Charleston Bars and Restaurants" scam in Charleston?

Accepted Answer

Unlicensed drivers position themselves near the bars and restaurants on King Street and Market Street late at night, offering rides to downtown hotels and the Charleston peninsula neighborhoods. They quote a flat rate that seems reasonable but inflate it with extra charges once the passenger is in the vehicle, sometimes refusing to stop until additional cash is paid. Only use officially licensed taxi companies or book rideshares through the Uber or Lyft apps. Confirm the driver name, photo, and license plate before getting in.

Question 2

What is the "Rideshare Driver Switching Destination Mid-Route to Inflate Fare" scam in Charleston?

Accepted Answer

Some drivers accepting rideshare trips from the Charleston Airport or the cruise terminal on Union Pier claim the app address is wrong and suggest an alternate route, significantly extending the drive time and fare. In non-app cash rides, drivers quote one price and claim traffic or route changes justify a higher final amount. Monitor your route in real time on the rideshare app. If a driver deviates without explanation, ask them to follow the app route. Do not accept cash-only alternative pricing at any point.

Question 3

What is the "Pedicab Fare Ambiguity in the Historic District" scam in Charleston?

Accepted Answer

Pedicab operators in Charleston's Historic District, particularly around the French Quarter and Rainbow Row on East Bay Street, quote initial fares vaguely as "just a few dollars" per person. After the short ride the driver presents a bill significantly higher than the verbal quote, citing a per-block or per-person surcharge not discussed upfront. Ask for a written or clearly stated per-ride total before boarding any pedicab. Confirm whether the price covers all passengers and any additional distance.

Taxi & Transport Scams in Charleston

Unlicensed Driver Overcharging Outside Charleston Bars and Restaurants

Rideshare Driver Switching Destination Mid-Route to Inflate Fare

Pedicab Fare Ambiguity in the Historic District

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