If only the numbers in the middle are lit, then that cab is waiting for you to flag it down. If only the outer lights are lit, then that cab is off-duty and headed back to the depot for a shift change, but it may still be possible to get a short ride. If there are no lights lit on top, then the driver already has a fare inside, but you won’t need to wait long for another to come by.
Step out as far as you can, so that you can be clearly seen but not so far that you put yourself at risk from oncoming traffic.
Simply repeat the process of hailing a cab but bend your elbow slightly and give a ’thumbs-up’ rather than an outstretched palm. This signals what the natives term a ‘short stop’ and the driver will decide whether to stop or not. If they drive past you, don’t start yelling and flipping them off like they do on T. V. , it’s not going to make them stop and if by chance they do, well it’s not to take you as a fare.
