Rideshare Drivers and Delivery Workers Taking Action Across the Country on May 1. Join the Day of Action!

May 1st is International Workers’ Day and this year, we ask you to join us and all members of the Justice App Workers Coalition to take action in your state. While most workers have the right to unionize to demand better pay and conditions, app workers are still fighting for that right. So in a show of strength and unity, rideshare and delivery workers are organizing nationwide strike actions on May 1 to demand justice and accountability from the platforms they serve. The Independent Drivers Guild stands in solidarity with rideshare and delivery workers across the country taking action to advocate for union rights, fair wages, better working conditions, and essential protections. Sign the pledge to say you will take action on May 1!

As drivers continue to face mounting challenges, from declining earnings to safety concerns, the IDG encourages all members to participate in solidarity actions or refrain from driving for the day. Together, we send a powerful message to corporate giants that the exploitation of gig workers will not be tolerated, and that we demand a fair and equitable future for all. 

Let us stand together on May 1 to amplify our voices and push for the systemic changes needed to ensure that rideshare and delivery workers are treated with the respect and dignity we deserve.

MA, CT, NJ, NY, IL, FL: Learn About the Amazing Independent Drivers Guild Member Benefits in Your State

In the bustling world of rideshare driving, the Independent Drivers Guild will continue to hold a steadfast commitment to the well-being and prosperity of drivers. To support our community, the IDG offers benefits designed to address the diverse needs of our members.

From helping drivers fight unfair deactivations to providing essential legal support when navigating complex issues, we want to make you feel empowered and protected. Our dedication extends beyond the road, with a range of mental health services available to support the holistic well-being of drivers. Whether it’s access to counseling or educational classes, the IDG strives to provide resources that empower drivers to thrive both on and off the road.
We invite all members to explore the full scope of IDG benefits available to them. Visit our website at https://driversguild.org/benefits/ to discover how the Independent Drivers Guild is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.

New York Drivers: Important Information on State’s Lyft and Uber Settlement – Claims Process is Now Open

In a win for New York’s Uber and Lyft drivers, New York State Attorney General Letitia James announced a settlement with the companies that will provide millions of dollars in back pay for certain drivers as well as new benefits, including sick pay, for all current NY Uber and Lyft drivers.

The claims process is now open.

As of March 7, 2024, the claims process is now open and notices are being mailed to drivers by Rust Consulting, the settlement administrator. Per Rust Consulting: You must file a claim to receive a settlement payment. THE DEADLINE TO FILE A CLAIM IS JULY 29, 2024. You can file a claim online or by mail. 

You can find all of the information on how to file a claim, who qualifies for settlement payments, what new benefits and support current drivers will receive, and how to avoid scams at https://driversguild.org/claims/.If you have any questions regarding the settlement, please reach out to the IDG office at 1-833-442-8848.

The Independent Drivers Guild Says NO to Autonomous Vehicle Testing in New York City, or Anywhere Else

The IDG stands firm in our rejection of autonomous vehicle testing in New York City, as well as anywhere else in America. Our stance is rooted in a commitment to ensuring the safety and livelihoods of our communities. We adamantly refuse to allow the implementation of driverless vehicles, or any other technology that jeopardizes the safety of our communities and the jobs of hardworking drivers to appease Silicon Valley billionaires.

Autonomous vehicles represent a looming threat to the stability of the livelihoods of countless drivers who rely on their income from rideshare services. Beyond economic concerns, the safety implications of untested autonomous technology navigating the intricate and bustling streets of New York City are too significant to ignore. The IDG advocates for solutions that prioritize the well-being of both drivers and passengers, rather than sacrificing them at the altar of technological progress.

As a collective voice for drivers, we will continue to stand against the introduction of autonomous vehicles. And our communities deserve assurance that their safety and economic security will not be compromised by the unchecked ambitions of technology companies.

Driver Spotlight: Meet IDG New Jersey Member Bashar Mahrous

Meet Bashar Mahrous, an immigrant from Syria who has worked in rideshare since 2019.

Bashar used to work for Lyft but was deactivated with a false report. “I had to turn back to Uber because Lyft said someone else was driving my car. This is what they pretended,” Bashar highlights, pointing out the frustrating hurdles drivers encounter, including unexpected account suspensions based on false reports.

Over the past three years, we have seen driver pay rates plummet and expenses soar, causing financial strain on drivers. “Rates have gone down so much,” Bashar laments, “so drivers can hardly cover their expenses.” This sentiment reflects the widespread concern among drivers grappling with the increasing cost of living and diminishing earnings. “Both are good companies,” Bashar says, “but the pay needs to be adjusted in a different manner.” 

Bashar advocates for fair compensation, emphasizing the need for equitable rates that consider factors like gas prices. “Time is time,” Bashar asserts, “We deserve a good rate just like New York.” His call for regular rate adjustments to align with fluctuating expenses resonates with many drivers seeking fair remuneration for their services including covering tolls. “When a driver is sent to pick up a passenger and is following the app maps and cross a toll, what is happening at present is that the driver pays the toll. This is not fair. Either the passenger should pay it or the operator” — the app company. 

Highlighting the pivotal role of drivers, Bashar reminds us that drivers are the backbone of these ride-hailing giants. “Uber and Lyft, their cookies and their caviar come from the drivers. If the drivers stop working, they will not have even bread.” 

Bashar commends the efforts of organizations like the IDG in advocating for drivers’ rights and providing vital support. “The IDG are people that are doing their best to move from the situation we have now to a union situation with better legal representation of the drivers,” Bashar acknowledges, highlighting the importance of collective action and representation in addressing drivers’ concerns.

New York Drivers: May is Healthy Vision Month! Get your no-cost eye exam and glasses from Drivers Benefits

Understanding the importance of clear vision for safe driving, we are proud to have secured free glasses and free eye exams for eligible NY rideshare drivers.

The Independent Drivers Guild fought for NY State drivers to get their benefits through The Black Car Fund’s Drivers Benefits Program. This May, we celebrate Healthy Vision Month for eligible enrolled drivers looking to get no-cost eye exams and free glasses or a 6-month supply of contact lenses.

As drivers who navigate the bustling streets of New York City and beyond, your eyesight is crucial not only for your own safety but also for the well-being of passengers and fellow road users. Through this program, eligible IDG members will have access to comprehensive eye care services, including eye exams to assess vision health and the provision of free glasses to those in need. 
To learn more about how you can take advantage of these benefits and access free glasses and eye exams, please visit the Drivers Benefits website or reach out to our dedicated support team. The Support Team is available in the IDG office for in-person help a few days a week – call us to confirm and find our Vision Van.

IDG Members Celebrate with Iftar Dinners Across the Country

Thanks to all the drivers who joined the IDG for break fast Iftar dinners in New York, New Jersey, and Massachusetts. Everyone enjoyed delicious food and company of their fellow drivers. All were welcome to participate and to learn about the holiday so many of us celebrate.

Here at the Independent Drivers Guild, we believe in building our driver community strong enough to weather any challenge together. Learn more about upcoming events and opportunities by visiting driversguild.org.

Eid Mubarak! from the Independent Drivers Guild 

As the month of Ramadan comes to a close, the Independent Drivers Guild extends warm wishes to all our members and their families for a joyous Eid al-Fitr! Eid Mubarak! This sacred occasion marks the end of a month-long journey of fasting, reflection, and spiritual growth. As a diverse community of drivers, we celebrate the richness of our cultural traditions and the unity they bring.

May this Eid be filled with love, peace, and prosperity for you and your loved ones. Wishing you all a blessed and memorable Eid celebration!

Get support 

New York Office Hours & Weekly Outreach

IDG’s NYC office is bigger and better than ever! Visit us:

New York Independent Drivers Guild

41-09 36th St #3

Queens, NY 11101

Monday – Friday, 10AM – 4PM

Until further notice, IDG weekly outreach will now be on Wednesdays at LaGuardia Airport only.

Queens Outreach

LaGuardia Airport

23rd Avenue and 90th Street, Queens, NY 11371

Wednesdays from 1PM – 5PM 

New Jersey Office Hours

New Jersey Independent Drivers Guild

110 Fieldcrest Avenue, 3rd Floor

Edison, New Jersey 08837

Thursdays from 9AM to 5PM

Friday from 10AM to 4PM

Connecticut Office Hours

Connecticut Independent Drivers Guild

157 Church St

New Haven, CT 06510

Wednesdays from 10AM to 6PM

Illinois Office Hours

IL Drivers! Have you visited our office yet? Come in and get support!

Illinois Independent Drivers Guild

114 W Higgins Rd

Park Ridge, IL 60068

Monday – Thursday from 10AM to 4PM

Friday from 10 AM to 2PM

Saturday from 10AM to 2PM

Sunday: Closed

Massachusetts Office Hours

Caffe Nero

1047 Commonwealth Ave

Boston/Allston

Tuesdays from 11AM – 3PM

Boston Logan Airport

Tuesdays from 3:30PM – 5:30PM

Boston Logan Airport

Every other Wednesday from 11:30AM – 1:30PM

Not in CT, IL, MA, NJ, FL or NY? Contact us here to speak with organizers about next steps. Reach out today – let’s organize in your state!
You can now read previous editions of the IDG Member Newsletter here!