Evaluating Work-Related Violence Among Taxi Drivers Using Two Data Sources

Background: In the US, violence against taxicab drivers has declined since the 1990s. In 1996-2000 the overall fatality rate was 41 per 100,000 workers among taxicab drivers. Since the late 1990s major cities have either installed partitions or cameras and implemented training programs to prevent intentional injuries and protect drivers. However, taxi drivers maintain a higher fatality rate than police and sheriff patrol officers (19 per 100,000) and cashiers (2 per 100,000). Methods: Fatality rates from 2003-2007 for taxicab drivers were calculated using the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CFOI) and the Current Population Survey (CPS). Summary statistics on basic demographics were provided by CFOI; data regarding specific circumstances of the homicide were provided by the newspaper articles. A publically accessible internet directory of all taxicab driver homicides known to have occurred since the 1980s was supplemented by a systematic search of newspaper articles available electronically. Results: The fatality rate among taxi drivers from 2003-2007 was approximately half that of 1996-2000 (21 vs. 41 per 100,000 workers). From 2003 to 2007 there was an overall 15% decline in fatality rate. Based on newspaper articles, 76% were found inside their taxicab, 82% had been shot, and 81% of fatalities coincided with a robbery. Half of the articles named 1 suspect, one-third named 2 suspects. Conclusions: Newspaper articles on workplace violence are an enriching complement to surveillance databases. Although taxicab driver fatality rates are declining, it is important to emphasize drivers are licensed, provided with comprehensive safety training and use safety equipment.