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Uber drivers warn new feature is ‘putting you at risk’
- Uber drivers have warned that a new feature dubbed the 'trip radar' is dangerous, distracting drivers while they are working, dangerously affecting their income, and threatening the safety of passengers and other road users.
- The system applies monetary competition between drivers who outbid each other while driving, creating hazardous and distracting working conditions.
- App Drives and Couriers Union (ADCU) has called on Uber to cease using the tool, which appears to be causing drivers to lose potential income while also putting them at risk.
- According to the union, Uber has been using Tri Radar to undercut wages and boost their profits. Drivers are having to rely on multiple offers at a time to secure enough work to make a living.
- Some drivers reported being flooded with trip offers at traffic lights and as they slow down for corners while others were being left in limbo for up to 30 or 40 seconds as they wait to be told whether a ride has been allocated to them.
- The distraction of the competition and the amount of information which appears on the screen, is causing drivers to feel the need to react quickly or lose the job that they are aiming for.
- The union has raised concerns that Uber may be using Trip Radar to offer rides on a discretionary basis, driving down earnings, and profitability for its members.
- The competitive nature of the tool means the drivers said they feel pressured to look at their phone and respond to potential bids as quickly as possible, which in turn has led to accidents.
- Some Uber drivers are working double shifts after Trip Radar caused a shortfall in their income.
- Uber claims that the driving app now only throws up urgent trips when a driver is stationary or going slow, but the accuracy of phone GPS was disputed by the union.
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