GETTING AWAY

MISS MALSY ON TAXI TIPS

On the way to the airport, our taxi driver repeatedly flipped off other cars. Although his aggression wasn't directed toward us, we tipped less than 15 percent. Was this unfair?

Whoa! Hit the brakes and put it in reverse. You're feeling guilty for not handing this finger-crazy cabbie more cash? I know a few gum-smacking, back-talking waitresses may pour coffee in my lap for this public service announcement, but apparently it’s needed: Tips should reward good service. Not rude gestures.

What constitutes “good” taxi service worthy of a 15 percent tip (the government standard for cab rides)? “Getting you from point A to point B, safely and in a clean vehicle,” says Al LaGasse, CEO of the Taxicab, Limousine & Paratransit Association. Unfortunately, “safely” doesn’t sound like your cabbie's S-word of choice. Sure, he wasn't flipping the bird in your direction, but by hurling his “You talkin’ to me?!” anger at other cars, he’s not only dangerously distracting himself and other drivers, but in an era of hair-trigger road rage, potentially putting you in harm’s path.

Not only would I call that reason enough to tip low, I’d go a step further and call the cab company to complain. Agrees LaGasse, “There’s objectionable behavior and there’s superior behavior. Both are worth reporting.” Luckily the two types are easy to distinguish: A superior cabbie extends his hand; an objectionable cabbie extends his finger.

– Kristina Malsberger

Have a travel etiquette question? Send it to Miss Malsy at highroads@arizona.aaa.com.