ADCU petition demands action over Uber’s controversial new ‘Trip Radar’ feature
The App Drivers and Couriers Union (ADCU) is urging Uber to remove its ‘Trip Radar’ feature, citing safety, accountability, and financial concerns for drivers.
The union’s petition, launched on 26 November, has already gained more than 1,300 signatures.
Designed to show drivers real-time information about nearby ride requests, ‘Trip Radar’ is meant to streamline operations. However, the ADCU argues the feature presents serious risks that overshadow its intended benefits.
At the forefront of the ADCU’s campaign are the safety risks associated with ‘Trip Radar’. The feature requires drivers to monitor their phones while driving, which the union suggests diverts attention from the road. This, the union adds, increases the likelihood of accidents, endangering not only drivers but also passengers and pedestrians.
Navigating roads in some of the world’s busiest cities demands full concentration, and it’s argued that additional distractions—like interacting with a smartphone—could pose significant issues.
The ADCU also raises concerns about accountability in accidents involving ‘Trip Radar’. They suggest it is unclear where liability would lie if a driver, distracted by the feature, were involved in a collision.
The union is calling on Uber to clarify its position on responsibility for incidents tied to ‘Trip Radar’. This includes creating clear guidelines for safe usage and implementing technology to minimise distractions. Without such measures, the ADCU argues, drivers are left vulnerable.
Beyond safety, ‘Trip Radar’ has drawn criticism for its impact on drivers’ earnings. The ADCU claims the feature compels drivers to accept rides without sufficient information to assess their financial viability.
Drivers often find themselves accepting fares that involve long, unpaid journeys to pick up passengers or trips to areas with low demand. This can result in lost time and reduced income say the union.
The ADCU adds: “This situation can create a cycle of frustration and dissatisfaction among drivers. They may feel pressured to accept rides simply to maintain their income, even if it means sacrificing their time and resources. Over time, this can lead to burnout and decreased motivation, as drivers struggle to make ends meet while navigating the unpredictable nature of ride-hailing work.
“In essence, the trip radar's limitations not only hinder drivers' ability to evaluate the financial viability of their rides but also contribute to a broader issue of job dissatisfaction and economic instability within the gig economy. By compelling drivers to accept assignments without adequate information, the system undermines their autonomy and financial well-being, ultimately affecting their overall experience in the ride-hailing industry.”
Finally, a ADCU spokesperson concludes in the petition: “ADCU firmly believes that no technological advancement should come at the expense of safety. ADCU is committed to advocating for the rights and safety of drivers, and we will continue to push for the necessary changes to protect everyone on the road.”
