The ridiculous 24 Trip TA Formula

Just in case you didn’t know, the TaxiCab Authority’s official formula for allocating Medallions is based on a 24 Trip per Shift Model (abandoned early in 2007). They actually believe having us sit around for 30 to 40 minutes out of each hour between the typical 2-10 minute rides is the ideal sought after situation. And you thought you were sitting day after bloody day because it was “slow”.

Even the green driver in town can do 30 trips in the typical 12 hour shift can they not? and still read the Newspaper from cover to cover? so why are we being managed to a max of 24?

The reason for TA’s Formula I believe has to do with two factors really. Using a 24 trip Model assures none of us will ever make “a living” from simply the Meter, thus keeping us easily controlled slaves (burger flipper level). Two, using the 24 trip model and NOT demanding 8 hour shifts be used by the Companies, which would work for 24 trips, helps the companies operate with the limited pool of drivers they have now. The 24 Formula also is easy to measure and gives novice observers the impression TA is doing a professional job.

So next time you are sitting and have finished reading the RJ for the 4th time, you will understand why TA figures it is wise you sit for 50 to 65% of your shift doing zippo but manning a nice advertising profitmaker for your employer.