TAP Voucher Trips (originally printed Sept. 2002)
Good business or just a waste of time?
By: Dan Van Hecke, Master Chauffeur
1. Why should I do them?
There are more cabs coming on the street competing for the same customers. TAP customers represent a dependable source of business, no matter what the weather or other business does. Any additional business to fill in the 30-50% of the time most taxis are empty means all profit.
2. Doesn't it take time for the paperwork and cashing them in?
Initially it does take more time to become familiar with it. However, all voucher forms are identical and then it takes only 30-45 seconds total to fill them out. (Remember your otherwise empty time not earning you any money.) They can be turned in once a week (or so) on a regular basis for immediate cash and $1.25 for each additional voucher.
3. Doesn't it take more time with the customers?
No. In fact, if the order is confirmed there are virtually no “no loads” as compared to regular calls. Also the same taxi regulations apply as with any other trip: that the meter can be started two minutes after arriving at the location (or two minutes after time order is due) and the meter can be started and running as soon as the customer enters the taxi (except for securing wheelchairs in an accessible van, per ADA Rules. Chapter 9-112-510). In 2000 the CTA Paratransit riders (from which TAP customers are drawn) were 68% ambulatory (no wheel chairs).
4. There is a $12.00 limit, no extras, no waiting time, etc. What about those?
Even though these are TAP conditions, the customer is legally required to pay the total valid taxi fare. In other words, there is no discount to the driver of any kind.
5. I have heard they don't tip as much.
Just like other trips, it varies with the service you sincerely give. Some will tip generously and others will not tip at all. It averages about the same. Besides, where else are you going to be guaranteed a $1.25 ”tip” (by CTA) on every trip?
6. Do they expect more service?
Not any more than if they were paying cash. There are always some customers (of all types) that are demanding and/or exasperating. A good driver will want to know, or will want to learn, how to handle them.
7. Many TAP customers don't seem disabled.
If you think only of wheelchairs, walkers and canes, that is true. However, there are many people (remember that 68%) who have a legitimate hidden disability (heart condition, respiratory, multiple sclerosis, etc.) that, while they may seem alive and “perky” when you meet them, have cycles and relapses where it is very difficult for them to move about.
8. Many TAP customers look well dressed and seem like they could pay cash.
Do not confuse having a disability with being poor. The Paratransit and TAP program is a right for transportation and is not based on income. It is neither a welfare program nor special treatment, although it is different. Just as these customers have paid taxes like the rest of us, would you turn down your Social Security retirement check if you had enough money when you retire?
9. Are there any long-term benefits?
Yes, and although all drivers are required to be TAP certified and take tap vouchers by January 1, 2003, the sooner current TAP drivers start actively taking TAP, the better their choice of regular profitable customers will be. In addition, all TAPS count as an underserved area pick-up, no matter where the customer is picked up. (It helps for the driver to keep his or her yellow copy for verification.) Finally, a driver, Raza Mohammed, doing TAPS since 1993, did about 2,400 last year and was awarded a medallion for his service to the disabled community, even though he was driving a sedan.
