(a) Generally. A taxicab shall be equipped with a taximeter of a make and design approved by the Department. Unless a rate schedule approved by the Department applies, a taximeter shall be the exclusive means for measuring fares. A taximeter may not have an error in calibration in excess of 3% and may not operate under multiple tariff schedules.
(b) Prohibitions. A taxicab may not be operated unless the Department has inspected, tested, approved, and sealed the taximeter; the taximeter is mounted and connected to the transmission or front wheel in an approved manner and, if mounted on the dashboard, does not obscure the vision of the operator or present a hazard to passengers; and the taximeter reading is visible to passengers at all times.
(c) Inspection. The Department shall inspect a taximeter semiannually and may conduct periodic spot checks as needed.
(d) Notice. A taxicab shall contain a notice approved by the Department and mounted in the passenger section of the taxicab advising passengers that the taxicab operator may not charge them a fare if the taximeter is not operating during the ride.
(1985 Code, Art. 16, § 17-405) (Bill No. 24-00)