Quote:
Originally Posted by Swarly
 this has zero to do with the current problem. These organizations raise money and drive seniors around at a loss because its charity. So if they can do it this should be our template for all businesses in Calgary?
Also correct me if I am wrong but since these organizations (I'm completely guessing here as I have no clue to any specific group you are talking about here) are not charging the seniors for rides they would not require commercial insurance, similar to how Uber was not breaking any laws a few years ago when they were demonstrating their business model and gave free rides.
Only point your post proves is that being required to pay full commercial insurance for part time driving would cause you to operate at a loss like a charity. |
Well... your assumptions are incorrect.
About 65 small communities in Alberta operate a wheelchair accessible vehicle(s) and they have to be inspected under Alberta transportations commercial vehicle inspection program, carry commercial insurance and use drivers with a clas 1,2 or 4 licence. Note: there is also the challenge of getting a wheelchair accessible vehicle costs --$45,000 - $95,000.
Almost all groups charge some sort of fare/ fee for transportation. For example, Cochrane to the Lougheed hospital (40KM) might be $40, Travel across a small town (5km) might be $3-$4. while Sometimes a passenger fare might be waived but pretty much all of the groups with wheelchair accessible vehicles charge some sort of fare.
The balance of the transportation expense might come from any combination of sources: lottery funding, community donations, volunteer labour, municipal grants/ contracts, and/or occasion fee for service contract work (charters). Bear in mind that charities generally can't operate at a loss. They have to break even... or they die.
So my point: A bunch of do-gooders have to follow the same criteria as Calgary now recommends for Uber (maintenance, insurance and personnel licencing) but Uber finds the criteria too onerous.
Something seems backward to me.
Now, could someone help me off my soapbox?