Behind the Wheel: Exploring the World of Public Transport Drivers and Perspectives of Passengers at Bosman Taxi Rank, Pretoria, South Africa

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to improve commuter safety in South Africa’s minibus taxi industry. It is a vital component of the nation’s transportation network that is plagued by road safety concerns due to driver behaviour. A quantitative research approach involving 150 respondents selected through probability sampling was utilised. Data were collected via self-administered questionnaires at Bosman Taxi Rank in Pretoria, Gauteng province, and analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The study’s findings revealed severe safety issues faced by public transport passengers, including fatalities and injuries resulting from unsafe practices by minibus taxi drivers. It also highlighted systemic shortcomings in traffic law enforcement, particularly during weekends, which are exacerbated by drivers operating under the influence of alcohol. Recommendations include professionalising the minibus taxi sector, enhancing collaboration between traffic law enforcement agencies and the taxi industry, revising remuneration structures for National Traffic Police officers, establishing passenger-centric organisations, centralising traffic law enforcement mechanisms, improving driver employment conditions, and conducting public road safety awareness workshops. This study contributes to scholarship by providing empirical evidence on the safety challenges within the minibus taxi industry and proposing comprehensive measures to address these issues, ultimately striving for a safer transportation environment for all commuters in South Africa. Keywords: Commuter Safety, Minibus Taxi Sector, Public Transportation, Road Safety, South Africa