Citation

Allred J, Saltzman A, Rosenbloom S. Transp. Res. Rec. 1978; 688: 21-27.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1978, Transportation Research Board, National Research Council, National Academy of Sciences USA, Publisher SAGE Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This study investigates the propensity of poor persons to use taxicabs. An evaluation of existing data on the use of taxicabs by different income groups shows that in larger urban areas lower income groups display a relatively high rate of taxi use. A critical analysis of previous work suggests, however, that the data analysis contained therein actually underestimated the reliance of the poor on the taxi. An analysis of the limited work on taxi use in small- and medium-sized urban areas reveals an even greater dependence of the poor on the taxicab. This work is supported by a survey of taxi drivers and an analysis of the origins of taxi trips. The factors that create this pattern of use are also examined. Previous studies and our data suggest that the poor often choose taxis because they are the principal option when an automobile is not available. Taxis appear to be chosen over conventional transit (when it exists) because they offer greater service flexiblity, convenience, and duration of service, as well as better meeting the security demands of the poor. Increased availability of taxi service by reduced market entry restrictions and reduced cost of taxi service by permitting group riding and providing subsidies would increase the mobility of the poor.