Taxi driver assault too common: WA judge

A 60-year-old man has been jailed for repeatedly assaulting a taxi driver in an incident a Perth judge says is all too common for the industry.

Gregson Woods pleaded guilty to aggravated assault in the West Australian District Court on Tuesday, admitting to attacking a taxi driver in the early hours of July 25.

The court heard Woods' de facto wife gave the driver two $10 notes when he asked for a deposit.

She then paid for the fare with PayPass but insisted her deposit was $100, demanding it back.

Woods, who was in the rear seat, leaned around and repeatedly assaulted the driver, who offered to give the woman $100 in a bid to end the attack.

Woods' defence lawyer said her client was "falling down drunk" at the time and didn't recall anything but was extremely remorseful after he saw CCTV footage.

Judge Simon Stone described his behaviour as appalling, saying the taxi driver went through a traumatic ordeal.

"Unfortunately for the taxi industry, it's all too common.

"I just feel so sorry for that taxi driver."

Woods was sentenced to 22 months in jail and will be eligible for parole when he has served half.