TAXI DRIVER

The yellow cab is a part of American culture, and almost anyone can drive one for a living. Driving a cab is seen as either a lonely, miserable job or one that is exciting, since each fare is an opportunity to meet someone new. Cabs come in all sizes, shapes, and colors around America. For people who would like to make their living behind the wheel of a truck or car, driving a cab is perhaps the easiest way to start.

At the beginning of their shifts, cab drivers report to the cab company and inspect the vehicle they'll be using for the day. In most cases, they have a display with their hack's license and photo, intended to assure passengers that a licensed driver is behind the wheel. In suburban areas, many drivers wait at the company until a call comes. Some wait by train or bus stations, usually keeping copies of arrival schedules in the glove compartment.

Dispatchers, usually former drivers themselves, have to have an intimate knowledge of the geography of the region so that the cabs keep moving from one drop-off to another pickup. Coming back to the office means downtime and lost moneymaking opportunities.

In cities, drivers tend to cruise the streets, waiting to be flagged down by customers. Many drivers park at airports or hotels, lining up and waiting for an attendant/doorman to call them forward. There might be dispatcher calls as well, but most city drivers work independently and enjoy the freedom they get.

FOR FUN

Gridlock
http://www.geocities.com/gridlock_cartoon
A Web-based comic strip about the drivers for a cab company.