NYC Taxi drivers are calling on city officials to address a longstanding issue—access to restrooms without the risk of receiving costly parking tickets. At a recent rally, the New York State Federation of Taxi Drivers urged the Taxi & Limousine Commission (TLC) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) to implement emergency parking placards, allowing drivers to double-park for up to 10 minutes while using a restroom.
“It’s unacceptable that hardworking NYC Taxi drivers face fines simply for taking a necessary bathroom break,” said Fernando Mateo, a spokesperson for the federation. “These drivers endure grueling shifts, often up to 12 hours, and should not have to choose between their health and their livelihood.”
Health Risks and Lack of Facilities
The union highlighted the severe health implications of limited restroom access. Many drivers are over 40 or 50 years old and suffer from conditions such as prostate issues, kidney disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure—ailments that require frequent restroom visits.
While public restrooms in places like libraries, hospitals, parks, and churches are available, the fear of incurring fines for illegal parking makes many cabbies hesitant to use them. Some drivers resort to relieving themselves in the street using their vehicle doors for cover—an action that, if caught, could cost them their ability to drive a taxi.
“Some drivers have no choice but to stop on the side of the road,” Mateo added. “If they get caught, not only are they fined, but they also risk losing their license to operate an NYC Taxi, which means losing their ability to earn a living.”
Calls for Immediate Action
The federation cited two specific cases to emphasize the urgency of the issue—one driver awaiting a kidney transplant and another battling diabetes. Both drivers have stated that their health conditions have worsened due to the difficulty of finding a restroom without risking a ticket.
“These drivers attribute their health problems to the stress of constantly holding it in,” Mateo stated. “A simple city-issued placard would make a world of difference.”
Federation President Steven Rivera also weighed in on the matter: “NYC Taxi drivers are the backbone of this city. They keep New Yorkers moving 24/7. Denying them a basic human necessity like a restroom break without punishment is not just unfair—it’s inhumane. The TLC and DOT must take immediate action.”
Awaiting a Response from City Officials
The 21,000-member union has formally reached out to TLC Commissioner David Do, requesting intervention, but they have yet to receive a response. Meanwhile, a TLC representative has stated that the agency is “continuously seeking ways to expand bathroom access for NYC Taxi drivers within the constraints of our public space.”
In addition to restroom access concerns, the union also emphasized the need for better city support for cabbies facing other operational challenges, including NYC Taxi lost and found procedures. Many drivers spend valuable time helping passengers retrieve lost items, yet they receive little assistance from city officials in streamlining the process.
As the debate continues, taxi drivers remain hopeful that their plea for emergency parking placards will be met with action, ensuring they no longer have to choose between a basic human need and their job security.
