Cabs from hell

Cabdrivers are assholes. I do not know how they passed their road exams, but they definitely do not know the first thing when it comes to the laws of the road. It's either that, or they just simply don't care, disregarding everyone and everything like they are the king of the roads. Or maybe they have a different set of exams, where they learn how to cheat and break traffic laws.

How often have you been blindsided by cabs who suddenly stopped at the roadside to pick or drop passengers? It can be in the middle of a busy stretch, or a one-way street. Then there are cabs who cut queues, use the emergency lanes, and tailgate others.

And don't get me started on cabdrivers who simply refuse to use the meter, and charge you as they see fit. Have you try to take a cab from Subang Jaya (commuter station and also Carrefoure)? They have a system there, where anywhere around the vicinity is charged a flat rate of RM10. Doesn't matter if it's only 10 minutes away, or just a few blocks away. And try to haggle, and they'll tell you to take the bus.

They really don't care. If you're not going to take their cab, some other sucker will. And they will still get their Rm10. And how much do they charge to get you to KL Sentral? It can be up to Rm40. If you're lucky, you might get away with Rm30 fare. But definitely no meter. They might as well yank out the meter and toss it out in the drain.

Of course, the prices are seasonal. Come the rain, charges can go up by 20%. Come the peak hours, another slight rise. And after midnight, a significant hike. When you think of it, it's amazing how some of them were complaining about how poor they are, and how hard it is being a taxi driver. But I guess those must be the few honest ones, who use the meter and abide traffic laws.

Yes, there are honest cabdrivers out there. And I've encountered them before. Very rarely. They are like an endangered species. You're lucky if you can find one. And if you do, make sure you get their number. Chances are, you might need to get to KLIA one of these days and the number might come in handy.

But for now, I'll stick to the bus.