Uber Driver Safety: Reducing the Risk of Coronavirus Transmission

As an Uber driver, navigating the increased health risks during the pandemic may seem daunting. However, with a combination of government regulations, personal protective measures, and proactive driver actions, you can significantly reduce your risk of contracting the coronavirus.

Government Measures and Uber Protocols

Uber has taken numerous steps to ensure the safety of drivers and passengers. Government health guidelines are strictly followed, ensuring that all drivers adhere to cleaning and maintaining their vehicles. Every Uber driver is provided with free equipment to sanitize their vehicles after each ride, ensuring that surfaces and interiors are disinfected regularly.

Vehicle modifications include a panel between the passenger and the driver, along with an intercom for communication and contactless payment options. These features aim to minimize physical contact and maintain a safe distance, reducing the risk of infection.

Personal Protective Measures

Wearing a mask is mandatory, both for drivers and passengers. Drivers should enforce a mask policy at all times, demanding that riders wear their masks securely over their nose and mouth. If a passenger removes their mask, you should pause the ride, asking them to return it to their face. If they refuse, report them and continue your ride without further interaction. Mask-wearing is not against ADA or any other laws—drivers are within their rights to deny service to non-compliant passengers.

Driving with windows down, even in unseasonable weather, is crucial. Recirculated air can spread airborne particles, increasing the risk of transmission. Keep windows cracked to allow for fresh air circulation and reduce the chance of inhaling germs. Crawl the windows about 1/3 to 1/2 way down and use child locks to maintain this setting.

Group Refusal and Social Distancing

Refusing large groups is critical to maintaining a safe environment. No one should sit in the front seat anymore, and drivers should adhere to social distancing guidelines by refusing rides with groups of three or more. This keeps enough space for everyone to breathe and reduces the risk of viral spreading. Even with masks, the risk increases exponentially with close contact.

Regular Cleaning and Hygiene Practices

Regular cleaning and disinfection are key to maintaining a hygienic environment. Between passengers, you may need to spray disinfectant every hour or so, depending on the frequency of your rides. Surfaces should be cleaned daily with an all-purpose cleaner, followed by a strong like Armor All. Run the car through a full wash and vacuum weekly, and wipe down door handles and seat belts daily. Drivers can use lens cleaner or safe disinfectant to clean their phones, as well as steering wheels and other frequently touched controls. Vehicle windows should be cleaned regularly, as they often become dirty or smudged from contact.

Avoiding any form of physical contact with passengers is crucial. Do not load or unload bags, help with car seats, or assist with anything that involves physical contact. Stay in your seat from the moment you pull up until after you drive away, and remind passengers of the social distancing and no-contact order. If a passenger becomes non-compliant and refuses to follow these guidelines, report the incident and, if necessary, call the police before leaving.

Safety First, Stay Safe

By staying informed about the latest safety protocols, enforcing strict mask policies, maintaining a well-cleaned vehicle, and refusing unsafe situations, Uber drivers can significantly reduce their risk of contracting the coronavirus. While there may be occasional challenging situations, following these guidelines ensures a safer environment for all.

P.S. If a passenger becomes extremely agitated about wearing a mask, report the incident and contact the appropriate authorities if necessary. Drivers should continue their ride after waiting for 5 minutes to ensure payment. These individuals are acting irrationally, and it’s important to prioritize your safety and the safety of others.

References:

Uber's Guidelines for Co-Riding Safety CDC Guidelines on the Use of Masks Lyft's Response to the Coronavirus