Seems that Taxi service is something that everyone loves to talk about, but a job that no one who seems to be an authority on it, actually wants to do.
People love to complain about Taxi service… but few who do remotely understand the nature and forces at work in the business.
Cab Co’s are corrupt Rental Car Agencies, they have no control or concern over whether drivers pick up fares promptly via radio or whatnot because cab drivers are not employees…
Drivers are like strippers who pay to work, earn no actual wages, and get no sick leave or health benefits from these cab companies or the city. In fact if you are sick and miss a shift , you’ll usually end up paying the $100 gate regardless to the company. Unmedallioned drivers are often getting by only via their survival instincts and luck…
As a “former” cab driver I would just say the deck is stacked so high against drivers from providing quality service , it’s amazing anyone gets anywhere.
If I wanted to offer a cleaner cab, help out lil’ old ladies by carrying their groceries, or drive to return customer’s lost items… I was f*cking myself over because it’s always a race against the clock… and drivers LOSE ALL THE TIME.
Why do you think many of the people who now take the mission on really have no idea where they are going, speak minimal English, and often have worthless social skills?
Drivers are daily risking their lives not only in traffic, but in their cars alone against potential criminals and ‘no-pays”. Daily engaging in never ending one man wars against congestion, bureaucracy, gas prices, and the very annoying needs and griping of customers without any understanding of their situation takes a toll. The companies or city will not give drivers extra time, exemptions or compensation to help provide better or safer service, so what motivation do drivers have to provide it?
More ranting on the Handsome Boy Mayor’s Taxi Commission, market forces, and links to some websites and writing done by drivers, (and even an mp3 tune) from those behind the wheel that might have a deeper understanding than the average whiner… all after “the jump”
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