Sussex wrote:
As for the health of our generally unhealthy drivers, well I don't really want to go there.
Indeed, but even with my own health issues I'm assuming I could cope with it without having to get treatment.* And self-isolation for a week or two wouldn't be a particular problem, as things stand at least.
So I'm 5% worried about catching the thing, but 95% worried about paying the bills.
I could increase my working hours by 20% or so if necessary, but would that cover the shortfall?
Of course, it all depends to what extent trade collapses - 20%, 50%, 70% down, or even worse, who knows?
Of course, different drivers and different businesses will be affected more or less than others, depending on the local market and where the bulk of their work comes from normally.
I certainly don't depend on airport work, for example, but many do a lot such work here, and if they're not earning there then because they're mostly HC plates they'll end up on the ranks more instead, which is where the vast majority of my jobs come from. (There's one such driver behind me on the rank as I type. Haven't seen him in ages, so I'm guessing he's maybe not making so much from the airport runs etc.)
Could witter on for hours here about local factors and the like, but would ultimately be a waste of time, so we'll just have to suck it and see
*Maybe I'm barking up the wrong tree, but for my late-50s age group I think my lungs and heart are above average efficiency, so hoping that means I'd cope relatively well. On the other hand, my immune system is slightly compromised, so who knows
And I'm not a doctor