Originally Posted by
Shimon
The OP was already in the taxi and the taxi seemingly left the stand after the OP was told 1000rmb. This isn't a 200rmb surcharge. The taxi could refuse to allow such a passenger to board, or refuse to drive till the passenger leaves the taxi, if he doesn't want to go out of the city. In which case the passenger can agree to pay over the meter to have the driver agree to travel. Under no circumstance can the driver take the passenger and then force him to pay a surcharge.
I am saying from personal experience that even if the driver agreed to a higher rate and he refuses to put on the meter he is most likely dangerous.
I didn't realize the Hangzhou taxis have doors that can't be opened and left if you don't agree to the fare. The guy got into a taxi, admits he didn't have time to bargain and agreed to the fare...once you agree you have to pay it, common sense. It seems both parties win, the driver makes a couple hundred extra and Humble makes it to PVG on time.
As far as your personal experience, I can't take those dangerous cabbies away from you. But based upon my personal experience the driver is most likely not dangerous at all but merely a guy trying to make a living driving a passenger from Hangzhou to Shanghai for 1000 RMB.