A guide for taxi and rideshare drivers to stay safe while working during COVID-19

Since the 1600’s Taxis have played an integral role in the transportation industry all around the world. At first we saw horse drawn carriages and over centuries the industry has evolved and adapted, providing an excellent service to their customers.

Taxi and rideshare drivers are the face of the industry, everyone remembers the friendly driver who offered to help carry the groceries to their door or the time their trip flew by because they were intrigued by the conversation with the driver.

The taxi industry relies on its drivers to succeed, this article provides drivers around the world some tips on how to keep safe during this current health situation.

1. Hand Sanitiser

Make sure to regularly use hand sanitizer. Keep a bottle at the back of your vehicle for passengers to use as well. This shows you have their best interest at heart and want to make them feel safe while traveling with you.

2. Mask and gloves

Wearing a mask and gloves while on shift is a great way to protect yourself from airborne particles. Make sure to regularly replace the gloves and mask. For those environmentally friendly drivers, look into sourcing reusable masks that you can wash daily. Keep yourself and the planet safe.

3. Personal Hygiene

When your shift is complete, make sure to take a shower and wash thoroughly, before coming into contact with your family or housemates. The last thing you’d want is to give your family a hug and possibly infect them. Let’s all stay safe.

4. Protective Screen

If you or your fleet haven’t already invested in a protective partitioning screen, now is the time to do so. These screens have been designed to help you stay safe but also give your passengers peace of mind knowing that you care for their well being.

5. Disinfect your car

A way to make sure you are always protected is to disinfect your car after every passenger. This might seem a lot, but all it takes is a spray disinfectant and wipe to give the seats, seatbelt and door handle a wipe. How great will it feel knowing you have gone above and beyond to ensure the safety of your passengers?

6. Pay by card

Inform your passengers when they make a booking or prior to them entering the vehicle that you do not accept cash. Paying by card minimises the contact you have with your passengers, all they need to do is tap their credit card and they’re good to go.

7. Inform your passengers

Informing your passengers of the safety measures you’re taking is something to be proud of! Create a sign and let them know that you have cleaned the back of the car before they entered the vehicle. Let them know that the protective screen is there, not to shut them out but to reassure them that you’re looking after them.

8. Self Isolate

If you’re feeling unwell, make sure to self isolate. Take time for your body to recover, give yourself the comfort of knowing you are healthy and ready to hit the road again. You will feel better and your passengers will appreciate it even more knowing their driver is healthy to transport them to their destination.

To the drivers out there transporting their passengers daily, you are appreciated, respected and needed, now more than ever. Please stay safe and healthy during these times.