 Spring is in full bloom and as warmer weather settles in, it's the perfect time for everyone to get outside, and take part in the many events happening throughout the city. Whether it's community gatherings, festivals or sporting events, vehicular and pedestrian traffic will increase.
Drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists all share a common goal: getting where they need to go safely. More people will be walking, biking, scooting, and spending time outdoors, which means heavier traffic patterns. Here are a few safety reminders for drivers:
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Slow down in high-traffic areas— Neighborhoods, school zones, commercial corridors, and intersections see the most vehicular, foot and bike traffic. Lower speeds give you more time to react.
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Stay alert at crosswalks— Many pedestrians begin crossing before drivers anticipate. Yield to people in crosswalks and avoid blocking them.
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Avoid distractions— Warmer weather brings unpredictable movement: children playing, joggers, dog walkers, and delivery drivers. Eyes on the road keep everyone safer.
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Check before turning— Look for pedestrians and cyclists approaching from both directions, especially during right turns on green.
On Sunday, April 5, Transport DC (TDC) will offer free rides all day to registered Metro Access customers in the District. These complimentary trips will not count toward customers’ monthly allotment of 10 one-way rides. To book a ride, call (844) 322-7732.
TDC is an alternative transportation service for WMATA Metro Access customers that provides wheelchair accessible vehicle rides to eligible passengers to and from any location within the District. For more information, visit dfhv.dc.gov.
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DFHV celebrates two exemplary wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) drivers! Recently, Solomon Mulat went above and beyond by completing more than 55 trips, while Kirk Thomas (not pictured) completed 23 trips across the District through Capitol Cab. Both drivers demonstrated their commitment to serving the disabled community with care and dedication. As a token of appreciation for their work, they won tickets to a Washington Capitals game, along with Shell Gas cards as a bonus.
Congratulations Mr. Mulat and Mr. Kirk for your service and for making a positive impact on the community! DFHV acknowledges all WAV drivers for their continued efforts to service passengers and increase transportation accessibility across the District.
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DFHV remains committed to expand wheelchair accessible vehicle service in the District by creating opportunities for new and existing drivers. Fiscal year 2026 grant funding opportunities are now available through August 2026. To learn more about the grant programs and application criteria, visit https://dfhv.dc.gov/grants or the ZoomGrants:DFHV Grants Portal. If you require technical assistance, contact the DFHV Grants Team at DFHV.Grants@dc.gov.
DFHV is looking for taxi, Uber, or Lyft drivers who are District residents to join the For-Hire Vehicle Advisory Council (FHVAC). As part of the Council, members have a unique opportunity to share their insights and help shape decisions that directly impact drivers, passengers, and the broader for-hire industry. FHVAC recommendations play a critical role in guiding the agency’s future direction to better serve the community. FHVAC members are required to serve a three-year term, and general body meetings are held quarterly. For more information, please contact Lindsey de Boo at Lindsey.deboo@dc.gov.
Taxi Driver Meetup with Dir. Jonathan Rogers
Monday, April 27 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
JW Marriott
1331 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20004
License plates must be visible. Avoid covering your license plate with obstructive covers. Vehicles with obstructed tags are subject to a $50 fine.
All taxis must accept credit cards and electronic payments. Customers told to pay only in cash may file complaints with DFHV. Drivers not accepting electronic payments may face $100 fines. Taxi drivers must use their meters; failure to do so or being caught using faulty meters can result in a $500 fine. Signs requesting "cash only" are prohibited.
Keep these road safety reminders in mind.
- U-turns are illegal and can be dangerous.
- Slow down and obey the speed limit. Higher speeds are more likely to cause injury or death.
- Give cyclists space. Don’t park in the bike lane or double park, this forces cyclists into busy roads.
- Blocking bike lanes, bus lanes, or traffic lanes is dangerous for all users. Use designated pick-up and drop-off areas instead.
- Always stop at stop signs and look for pedestrians and cyclists. Always stop for pedestrians at crossings and wait for them to cross before continuing.
- Passengers, remember to remain alert of your surroundings, travel with friends, and know your driver. If you’re taking a taxi or rideshare service, make note of your driver’s ID or tag number and always let your friends and family know where you are.
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