Want to be a Taxi Driver?

When you are down and out and need to make money in a hurry, there's usually an ad in any major city newspaper "BE YOUR OWN BOSS, DRIVE A CAB TODAY", or something of that nature. If you have a pulse and can drive, they'll probably hire you. In this revolving door you will have to work a twelve hour shift with no lunch break, this is bad news during the long, hot summer. Starting out you can expect the junkiest cab in the fleet, plus favoritism among dispatchers and even management openly allowing that. Keep in mind that since it's so easy to get into, it's a congregation of alcohol, drug and antisocial problems in general. this could even escalate into a dangerous situation, and don't be surprised by management pretending not to notice.

If you don't know the city well, buy a map and study it. some dispatchers are helpful, some downright rude or just hoping you will disappear, many times you'll need help from a fellow driver or passenger. What we dread most, of course, is the vehicle breaking down. then you lose part of your day waiting for a tow truck, riding in it back to the cab office, where they may or may not have another cab for you, if they don't you just have to dream of a better day. this hurts if you have pressing bills to pay. On days when it's very busy, you might waste a long time getting thru to the dispatcher, who must get your last fare amount before giving you another fare. Having to drive in bad weather all day takes a toll on you, especially with nervous passengers or a sleep deficit or both. you are more likely to have an accident in these conditions. Some drivers spend most or all their time parked at hotels, waiting for an airport run and the promise of a good tip. this is a feast or famine existance, yes you may get that airport run after waiting several hours.

If you have dreams of a better life, this is not the environment you want. many cab drivers don't have a life beyond this daily grind. their fellow drivers become their family. Sitting behind the wheel for many hours takes a toll on their health, with smoking, overweight and back problems common. they're most often unprepared for the inevitable day when they will no longer be able to drive. early death is common. Not a good place to be.