The price of fuel, which has been rising in recent months, is making life difficult for taxi drivers and services like Uber. Financial compensation is often insufficient for transportation activities to earn.
It costs us almost 100% more, said taxi driver Ali Pourhashem. He said his entire tank of gas now amounts to nearly $ 180.
This new reality is affecting all drivers, who are trying to make their trips profitable. It’s a difference of a few hundred dollars a month and it has an impact. We hope to have a little rest soonsaid Kristine Hubbard, Chief Operating Officer of Beck Taxi.
Uber drivers and most taxi drivers own their vehicles. This means they have to pay for insurance, vehicle maintenance and fueling themselves.
” We have to pay because we need gas to run our business. “
It is still possible to support your family as a taxi driver, but there are more hurdlesconfession of Mrs. Hubbard.
To offset the high cost of fuel, Uber Canada charges an additional $ 0.50 per trip and $ 0.35 per food order, an amount paid to drivers. However, the proposal does not seem to be enough for drivers.
Miss to win
Uber Canada has ensured a 30% increase in the wages of its drivers since the fuel surcharge was implemented in March. A driver who drives more than 20 hours a week will earn more than $ 30 per hour in the Greater Toronto Area, according to the company.
On earth, the discourse is somewhat different. That doesn’t cover much when considering the rising cost of food, rent, insurance and vehicle maintenance.argues Brice Sopher, vice-president of Gig Workers Unitedan organization defending the rights of gig workers.
He added that this is what drives drivers to question their future. For us to see an exodus of gig workers into the transportation sector.
I have worked in the industry for a long time. In my experience, I have seen revenue decline or stagnate. I did not receive a raise the whole time I worked in this professionsaid Sopher.
For taxi driver Ali Pourhashem, there is no question about financial compensation, even as fuel prices rise.
At the time of income declaration, it must be placed as an expense within the framework of our activity. We do not receive any subsidieshe explains.
Despite everything, Mr. Pourhashem clings to his profession, which he has practiced for more than 25 years.
Tired drivers
The pandemic has caused damage to the taxi industry and its drivers, many of whom have simply left the profession. Rising gas prices are another blow to the resistors.
People should be paid fairly for the work they do, directed by Kristine Hubbard. He believes driver compensation should be a priority to ensure the safety of the industry.
Beyond financial problems, inflation has human value for drivers. Some have to work long hours or hold a lot of work.
I see people stressed. I see people wondering if they can support their families. I see people spending less time with their familysaid Brice Sopher.
” People spend less time with loved ones. They lack sleep. “
While waiting for rising gas prices to slow, the taxi drivers we’ve met hope the City of Toronto will adopt a measure to help them pay for their expenses.
Source: Radio-Canada
