Quote:
Originally Posted by BigCityLittleMan
Sorry to bump up an old thread but just wanted to ask opinions about tipping after some experiences with the taxi.
My ride is usually 6 minutes total (about 2.3 miles) and the flat-rate fare is $15. Does a $1 tip sound too little for the ride?
I'm not a taxi person but I feel the $15 flat-rate fare is quite high (even compared to NYC) so wanted to see if anyone had opinions.
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Tipping is a large part of a taxi driver's wages. They do not get an hourly wage. Most taxi companies work in one of two ways. They often lease the car to the driver for a certain time slot and he has to pay that no matter how many fairs are picked up. Another way is that the dispatcher calls all fair rates and the driver and dispatcher split the fair in some way. The driver pays for his own gas and insurance. so tips are often a big part of what they make to drive. I am probably a very generous tipper, but I do think everyone should tip well, if the service deserves in.
A $15 flat rate should result in a tip of at least $1.50, and that is only if the service was very baseline. I am not talkign about bad service, like a driver who is mean, or refused to make you comfortable or take a path you suggested. In cases like that, no tip is deserved. But if its a very baseline service, not great, but certainly nothing ot complain about, 10% is a must. Even for this service I would probably give $2, I would probably give $3 if the driver is very good, waiting for me and gets me there fast and safe, keeping the car to my exact level of comfort.
As for the rate, call around and see if you can get a better rate. If its the market rate, you are probably stuck. Sorry its so much money for you, but try not to take that out on the driver.
all the best.