Driver fatigue in taxi, ride-hailing, and ridesharing services: a systematic review

Abstract

Driver fatigue is a major cause of road crashes. However, there is limited knowledge regarding the potential consequences of driver fatigue in taxi (conventional and app-based), ride-hailing, and ridesharing services. Driver fatigue is likely to be significantly exacerbated in this population due to the multi-task characteristics of their jobs; thus, conducting a comprehensive study on driver fatigue in these transportation sectors is of utmost importance. This systematic review summarises the current state of knowledge about the causes and consequences of driver fatigue. We also suggested some potential control mechanisms for driver fatigue in taxi and ride-hailing services along a fatigue risk trajectory. We included studies published prior to September 2022 in three databases (Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed) using a predefined search strategy. Eligible studies were critically appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal checklists. A total of 18 studies met our eligibility criteria as scoped from the 414 initially identified studies. Eight contributing factors to driver fatigue were revealed including long working hours, short rest breaks, limited driving experience, job demand, poor sleep, algorithmic management, traffic congestion, and additional workload. Furthermore, our review identified risk factors for driver fatigue in taxi and ride-hailing services, including road safety, work pressure and driver’s health, optimism bias, job precariousness, and lack of additional benefits. Findings to date suggest that driver fatigue in taxi and ride-hailing industries is as serious as, or more serious than, in other transportation sectors. Understanding the working conditions of these drivers is critical to establish effective policies and practices for reducing crash-related driver fatigue.