Have you ever wondered what taxi drivers do when they don't have an order? Maybe you've seen them standing in a parking lot or at a gas station and wondered how they normally spend their free time. It's not just about waiting for the next customer.
Taxi drivers have a number of ways to use downtime efficiently. Some are dedicated to maintaining their vehicle so it is always in perfect condition, others educate themselves, follow social media or chat with colleagues. For many, it's also a time to rest and recuperate so they can provide what the best service.
1. Pump break
Every taxi driver has his favourite petrol station where he refuels or goes to rest. The choice depends on factors such as the price of fuel, the quality of the coffee (yes every coffee machine at the pump is different, even within the same brand of pumps) or the staff. Taxi drivers often take advantage of the unordered time to refuel, have a coffee or a short rest at the pump.
Other popular activities at the pump include:
Gossip
At petrol stations, taxi drivers often have conversations with their colleagues. They discuss current topics, the advantages and disadvantages of different routes, clients, or the experience of the night shift.
Earnings Comparison
Perhaps one of the most popular activities of taxi drivers is bragging about their earnings during the night and the previous days, the one who has the most is then usually labeled as a "car loser" and the target of ridicule from the less skilled. Of course, the talk of the best tip or the longest order during this debate cannot be missed either
2. Social Networks
Taxi drivers often use the time without a customer to communicate on social networks. In doing so, they often use public groups such as Bolt Slovakia.
Comparing earnings
Discussions about earnings are also among the most frequent topics on social networks. Drivers post here, however, mostly striking photos of inappropriately priced orders from online taxi platforms.
3. Productivity Outside Driving
Taxi drivers use their free time in different ways, but this is one of the rarer ones.
Studying And Acquiring New Skills
Some drivers are also dedicated to training and development. They follow traffic news, take online courses or study foreign languages for their personal development.
Study Foreign Languages
Studying foreign languages is a great opportunity for drivers to expand their options and open doors to new opportunities. Mastering a new language not only brings a sense of personal growth, but also greater flexibility in different life situations. Knowledge of foreign languages can give drivers new perspectives, increase their ability to adapt to different situations and support the development of their career or personal ambitions.
Online Courses
Online courses offer drivers an easy way to learn new skills and expand their knowledge. They give them the opportunity to educate themselves in a variety of fields, which can open the door to new career opportunities or personal interests. Online learning is accessible anytime, anywhere, allowing drivers to effectively use their free time to learn new things that can benefit them in the long term and expand their options in the future.
4. Vehicle Care
During the free moments without orders, many taxi drivers pay attention to their most important work tool - the vehicle.
Cleaning And Maintenance
Taking care of the cleanliness and maintenance of your vehicle is key. Taxi drivers regularly clean the interior and exterior of the car to ensure a pleasant environment for passengers. They use cleaners on the steering wheel, door handles and other parts that customers come into contact with. Regular maintenance also includes checking tires and brake pads. This prevents unexpected problems on the road.
Minor Repairs And Checks
Preventive checks and minor repairs ensure that the vehicle is always in top condition. Taxi drivers frequently check the oil, coolant and other fluids. If they find minor defects, such as a burnt-out light bulb, they fix them themselves. They also check headlights and turn signals to make sure they are fully functional. These measures contribute to road safety and a longer vehicle life.
5. Cooperation With the Community
No, they don't really do that during the night, or at least we haven't heard about it.
6. Casino and Gambling
We would prefer not to write about this activity, but to be honest, some drivers move here during their free time. The title of this section speaks for itself and we think that this topic does not need to be described any further.
7. Sleep
When a taxi driver has no customers during the night, he sometimes takes a break and takes a nap in his car. Night services can be tiring, so sometimes it's good to switch off for a while and recharge. All it takes is a few minutes of sleep to feel refreshed and ready for the next ride when a new order comes in.