Long-hauling is a sinister scourge

Ronald Johnson, Henderson

Thursday, May 2, 2013 | 2:01 a.m.

Discussions about long-hauling have been focused on its impact on unsuspecting tourists seeking a pleasant getaway experience in Las Vegas while even expecting to shell out a little extra money in the process.

What the public may not be aware of is that long-hauling affects locals, too. The experience for me was a sinister reminder that until you get to your intended destination, you are a hostage in a moving vehicle that’s not under your control. Moreover, you are subject to the whims of a taxi driver who’s intent on taking unearned money from your wallet, and you are helpless to do anything about it. As a victim of long-hauling, my story is likely not that unusual.

While my trip to McCarran International Airport was direct and uneventful, costing me $20, my return trip was anything but, perhaps reflecting my lack of traveling experience. Within a minute of exiting the airport, I knew something was wrong as the taxi was headed in the wrong direction. We both understood what was happening — I was in the process of being robbed. When I voiced my concern to the driver, he became belligerent, making matters about the outcome of my trip even worse. The cost of the trip home was $40, a 100 percent fare increase over what the fare should have been. Yes, there is a real need for remedial action.