Ride-hailing driver Kuljeet Singh from Vancouver experiences anxiety every time he refuels his vehicle due to the escalating gas prices. The recent surge in global gas prices is attributed to the U.S. and Israel’s military actions in the Middle East, disrupting tanker traffic in the crucial Strait of Hormuz shipping route.
Drivers like Singh, who spend long hours on the road, are feeling the financial strain of increased fuel costs, leading to concerns of burnout as they struggle to cover expenses. Gas prices in Canada have surged, with the average hovering around 168.1 cents per litre, reaching even higher levels in provinces like British Columbia, where prices have exceeded $2 per litre at some stations.
Singh, also the director of the Ride Hailing Driver Association of B.C., estimates an additional $150 to $200 monthly in fuel expenses, prompting him to consider working longer hours to compensate. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has disrupted global oil markets, impacting prices even in oil-rich countries like Canada.
Vice president of the Rideshare Drivers Association of Ontario, Earla Phillips, highlights the challenges faced by drivers who were already struggling financially before the gas price surge. Phillips mentions that many drivers are now facing difficulties in meeting car payments and basic living expenses, with some resorting to food banks for support.
While government initiatives aim to protect gig workers, criticisms remain regarding the adequacy of these measures in ensuring fair pay and safety. Phillips emphasizes the need for ride-hailing companies like Uber and Lyft to introduce fuel surcharges for riders during periods of high gas prices to alleviate the financial burden on drivers.
As costs continue to rise, drivers may seek alternative sources of income to sustain their livelihoods, signaling a potential shift away from ride-hailing services. The industry is evaluating strategies to support drivers amidst the ongoing challenges posed by escalating gas prices.
Photo: [A gas station in Surrey, B.C., advertises a price of 204.9 cents per litre on Friday. (Ben Nelms/CBC)]