Getting tunneled or long-hauled is one of the shadiest things done in Las Vegas. Cabbies prey on tourists and purposely take them to longer routes that will end up costing the customer anywhere from $5-10 more for the trip. Most of these trips originate from the airport, and they can either take you directly north through Paradise, like they’re supposed to, or they’ll take you south through a tunnel, and charge you more for the trip. This is ILLEGAL so don’t let them do it.

There are a few ways to avoid this.

1) Never ever say to go the fastest way. This is basically giving them permission to tunnel you.
2) Tell them you want to go the cheapest way. Cabbies know the routes inside-out, so they know what to do after you say this.
3) Just be completely direct, tell them no tunnel!

However, shit happens sometimes, and you can still get tunneled for one reason or another. If this happens, there are a few things you can do.

1) If you notice the long-haul, tell the driver you know what’s going on and that you’re going to only pay the fare you’re supposed to pay. You can check approximates rates here: Approximate Fare Information. Most of the time this is the end of it, but some of them will be ignorant one way or another.  If you want a more accurate number, use this Fare Estimator tool here.  It even tells you what route you should be taking.

2) If it escalates to this and he refuses the appropriate fare, wait till you get to your destination and then call the Nevada Taxi Authority at 702-668-4000. Or you can call in the cab if you wish. You will be asked a series of questions and if you’re willing to sign a complaint. Say yes. At this point, the driver will either relent or is pretty screwed, so 99.9% of the time, you’ll be done there. Just don’t tip the guy, he doesn’t deserve it.

Click here to view the Approximate Taxi Fare Chart!

Click here to view the Fare Estimator Tool!