[vladvasiliu]

I think the issue goes somewhat deeper than this.

For example, in Paris, it was pretty common for taxi drivers to refuse to take you somewhere, even though there's a "starting fare", which is quite high, and you'd think that only that could make it worth their while. This would especially happen late at night, when public transport is basically non-existent.

But taxis aren't just any random person with a car willing to drive people around. For example there are all kinds of arrangements done for them, such as dedicated lanes or authorization to use bus lanes. They have dedicated parking spots all over the city, etc.

So if we, as the public in the city, make those concessions to them, I'd expect something in return. To me, they're a public service much in the same way the metro or the bus service. Sure, they cost a lot more, but that's because I can get them to come exactly where I am, when I want, and drop me exactly where I want to go. I'm not sure people would be so understanding if a bus driver refused to drive because he didn't feel like it / the weather was bad / it was too hot / etc.

[gifnamething]

That's the crux for me, too. The time you're most likely to be rejected for a ride is after going out drinking, which is also when your safety most depends on getting a ride.

[goatinaboat]

in Paris, it was pretty common for taxi drivers to refuse to take you somewhere

In London taxi drivers are notorious for never wanting to venture south of the river, but that is a matter of personal safety, that they are a public service doesn’t give anyone the right to compel them to do something ill-advised.

[porknubbins]

Not familiar with south London but might not the real reason be that in a lower income area people won’t hire them for the ride back. NYC cabbies have to drive through dangerous areas as a matter of course and there are more guns there.