Independent taxi drivers in San Antonio are fighting to stay alive in today’s world of technology and rideshare competition. They’re hoping the city steps in to help them stay traditional in their service to residents.

Challenges Facing Taxi Drivers

Linda Thomas, owner of ALRT Taxi, said sometimes it can take all day before she gets a customer. The rising cost of living is one issue devastating the industry, with rates set at $2.70 per mile with a drop charge of $3.50, which taxi drivers agree is too low in today’s economy.

Mike Nazir, an independent taxi driver of 12 years, noted that their insurances have gone up almost 30%, and their rates have stayed the same. The cost of living has gone up, and rides are few, so they are fighting to survive in this industry.

Thomas added that the lack of awareness that they are still around is hurting their career. When Yellow Cab went bankrupt, people think all the taxis are gone. They don’t see them, and if they are not visible, they don’t know.

Seeking City Help

The taxi drivers are hoping to create a proposal with the city to raise their rates, but Thomas said they are also trying to see how they can get a grant. That will help them maintain their vehicles and put food on the table.

They know Uber and Lyft are options, but they’d rather keep it traditional. Nazir said cabs are needed in this city, and some people have been driving for 40 years. This is their livelihood, and they want to work with the city because they are just trying to survive.

Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.