Being a taxi or limousine driver in NYC is not always an easy gig. You have to deal with constant traffic, construction reroutes and the ever-looming threat of receiving some kind of traffic ticket. New York has some of the strictest traffic laws in the country, and even a simple violation could cost you hundreds of dollars when all is said and done.

Beyond these headaches, the passengers are not necessarily enjoyable, either. Whether you’re driving a disrespectful, impatient society member to an event or safely bringing home some drunk and disorderly twenty-somethings, it’s easy to feel like you arenʻt earning the money that you deserve. As a result of frustrations like these, some drivers have found a way to artificially bulk up their fares with a taximeter accelerating device.

resist the urge to illegally upcharge your passengers

A taximeter accelerating device is a tool used to increase the displayed charge amount on a taximeter. This means more income for the driver, but it comes with a big risk. Even if you do not use it, possessing a taximeter accelerator device with intent to use could result in a class A misdemeanor.

A class A misdemeanor charge might land you in jail for up to a year or hand you three years of probation. The court may also assign fines of up to $1,000 or twice the amount of your gain from the crime, whichever is greater. Not only that, this charge could seriously damage your reputation and cause harm to your business.

Taxi and limousine drivers deserve respect and appreciation for the services they provide. They deserve a fair wage, too – but if you get caught possessing one of these devices, you will need to prove through evidence that you had no intent to use it. Talking to someone familiar with Taxi and Limousine Commission violations may be a wise choice.