As Uber and Lyft become more popular for commuters, the drivers in Los Angeles are fuming mad over new rates that Uber announced cutting their pay by 25%. Drivers on Monday, in Los Angeles and other major cities, took action to organize a strike over their pay and work conditions.
The drivers claim that the new rates make it hard for folks to earn a living, and put people in a vicious cycle where they are not able to get out of it. One driver explained her situation as “trapped”.
Spokespersons for both sides added that the services are used “as a source for temporary income”, and “giving drivers more control over how they earn”, but drivers weren’t buying it as they rallied hundreds to their cause outside of Uber’s office in Redondo Beach, CA.
Drivers maintain that they have to pay for their own vehicle upkeep, which cuts into their profits even more. One driver even talked about how he skips meals and sleeps in the car he’s renting from Lyft but works 14-hour days up to 7 times a week.
Many of the drivers are classified as contractors, something that is coming under fire more as the gig economy companies gain more popularity.
Driver’s do have a reliable insurance policy in case of an Uber or Lyft accident, but full coverage is only when a fare is in the car and limited in route to fare or “deadheading” where a driver is waiting in location for clients.
Despite these conditions, drivers continue to find this type of work rewarding and hope it provides them enough to make a decent living.If there’s been an accident with personal injury, it’s always best to contact a professional attorney before signing any paperwork from the insurance company.
