DAYTIME SHIFTS: Why some taxi drivers prefer working the lower day tariffs

For many taxi drivers, working the day shift, despite lower tariffs, offers several advantages that outweigh the potentially higher earnings of night-time work. The decision to drive during the day is not just about the fares, but a balance of practical considerations, lifestyle preferences, and even risk management.

Consistent and predictable demand

One of the primary reasons taxi drivers favour daytime work is the more consistent and predictable demand. During the day, especially in cities and towns, there's a steady flow of passengers who need transportation for work, shopping, appointments, or leisure. Business commuters often rely on taxis to get to meetings or offices, while tourists use taxis for sightseeing. Many short trips—whether it's from a train station to an office block or from a shopping centre to a nearby restaurant—can quickly add up, providing drivers with a steady income throughout the day.

The regularity of these daytime trips contrasts with night shifts, where demand may be more sporadic. While night-time fares might be higher, they are typically driven by specific sectors, such as the late-night economy centred around pubs, clubs, and restaurants. This can lead to extended waiting times between fares, especially outside the busy weekend periods.

Daytime driving, then, offers the benefit of knowing that a steady stream of passengers is available, reducing the need to wait in rank queues or idle while hoping for the next fare.

Lower risk and increased safety

Safety is another major factor influencing some drivers' decision to work during the day. The night-time economy brings with it the inherent risk of dealing with passengers who are intoxicated or just more ‘unruly’, particularly around closing time for bars and clubs. For drivers, this can lead to uncomfortable situations, fare disputes, or even the potential for conflict. Those scenarios are not for everyone!

Late at night, streets are less populated, and some areas become more isolated, increasing the risks for drivers who may encounter individuals looking to avoid paying fares or engaging in confrontations. In contrast, during the day, city centres and suburban areas are bustling with activity, which adds a layer of security.

For some drivers, this reduced risk factor is a compelling reason to opt for daytime shifts. The reassurance of driving in daylight, with the general public around, significantly lowers the chances of encountering challenging passengers or dangerous situations.

The appeal of regular working hours

Another key factor is the appeal of regular working hours. Many drivers value the structure of working during the day, as it allows for a more predictable routine. Unlike night shifts, which often require irregular sleeping patterns, driving during the day aligns more closely with typical work hours, providing drivers with a work-life balance that many find preferable.

Daytime shifts enable drivers to spend evenings with their families or engage in social activities, which can be difficult to achieve when working late into the night.

Moreover, for those who value a traditional family life, being able to work while children are at school and returning home in time for dinner or evening commitments is a significant advantage. The daytime shift also allows drivers to maintain personal routines, such as exercise or hobbies, which might be compromised by late-night driving.

Earnings balance and efficiency

While daytime fares are lower than night-time or premium tariffs, many drivers find that the efficiency of day work balances out the reduced rate. Short, frequent trips during busy hours, particularly during rush hour, can be just as profitable as more sporadic longer, higher-rate journeys in the evening.

In densely populated areas, the high turnover of passengers during the day means drivers spend less time waiting between fares and more time on the move, translating to more consistent earnings. The variety of customers during the day—commuters, tourists, and shoppers—means there is usually a constant demand, particularly in larger cities or towns with active commercial districts.

Additionally, many drivers prefer day work because it avoids the unpredictability of night-time driving, where long stretches without passengers can sometimes be followed by a sudden rush that might not make up for earlier quiet periods.

Ultimately, for many taxi drivers, working the lower day tariffs is about more than just the fares. It offers a combination of steady demand, lower risk, and the ability to maintain a regular work-life balance. The predictable routine of daytime shifts appeals to those who prioritise family life and safety.