BREAKING: Major Settlement Wins Secured for New York Drivers

The Independent Drivers Guild has an important update regarding the settlement between Uber, Lyft, and the New York State Attorney General. This agreement is a major win for New York rideshare drivers, securing millions in back pay for NYC drivers who worked between 2014-2017, as well as new benefits like paid sick leave for current drivers.

The settlement provides $328 million in withheld taxes and fees that will be distributed to impacted Uber and Lyft drivers from that period. This means thousands of our members stand to receive significant compensation for their hard work over those years.

Additionally, all active NY rideshare drivers will start receiving new benefits and protections like paid sick leave going forward.

We know many of you will have questions about eligibility and when you’ll receive your share of the settlement. But please be aware; the claims process has not opened yet – it is expected to begin by March 1, 2024. When it does, we will send detailed information on how to file. In the meantime, be vigilant about potential scams asking for your personal information. IDG will never call to request private data like your SSN. We’re here to support you through this process and ensure drivers get the payouts they deserve. Please reach out directly to our organizers if you need more info: 1-833-442-8848 or help@driversguild.org.

IDG New Jersey is Educating Drivers: Learn About Our New and Compelling Driver Classes

Fellow drivers, we’re excited to share that our first IDG New Jersey Customer Service Class was a great success! This month, 16 drivers gathered to learn useful tips and techniques for delivering excellent customer service. Drivers engaged in thoughtful discussions and picked up strategies to handle challenges on the road with empathy and professionalism. From navigating difficult conversations to going the extra mile, the class provided valuable skills to make every ride five stars.

Thanks to all who participated – we look forward to offering more educational opportunities like this to help you succeed. If you missed out this time, get signed up for the next IDG NJ class!

Massachusetts State House Takeover! MA Drivers Pack the Room for Hearing on Union Rights Legislation

Last week was a proud and powerful moment for IAM Mass Drivers. We packed the State House during the hearing for the Rideshare Driver Justice Bill, demonstrating the strength of our voices. Sincere thanks to all the drivers who came out to speak in support of this critical bill. Sharing your stories publicly is not easy, but your courage makes an impact. This bill would finally secure the pay, benefits, protections, and right to organize that drivers have long fought for.

A massive THANK YOU to all the members who came out to speak in support of the bill. Now we must keep up the momentum and pressure until drivers get the justice and dignity we deserve. Keep speaking out and share our efforts on Facebook – victory is within our reach!

Get Connected to IDG Connecticut Driver Classes

Great news – our first customer service training for IDG Connecticut drivers was a resounding success! Drivers learned useful tips to provide excellent service and handle challenges on the road. IDG Connecticut will offer free monthly Customer Service classes for drivers. Learn key skills to impress passengers and boost your ratings the last Tuesday of each month from 10am-2pm at 357 Main Street in East Hartford.

Topics will include navigating difficult conversations, going the extra mile, and managing ratings. Sign up now through the registration form link to reserve your spot at this valuable training. As always, IDG is here to provide the tools you need to succeed!

Great Health Care and Financial Benefits Coming for IDG New York Members: Get Connected Today

NY Drivers: new services are now available through Independent Drivers Guild and Drivers Benefits! Drivers enrolled in the Drivers Benefits program can now access free medical care at any of ModernMD’s 12 clinics across NYC for injuries, illnesses, and more. This expands your options for convenient, quality healthcare. Also, don’t forget to use your Drivers Benefits dental coverage before the year ends on December 31st when your annual maximum resets. Eligible New York drivers can enroll in their Drivers Benefits here for free.

Furthermore, all IDG members in New York can now get free financial coaching through our new partnership with TrustPlus. As the holidays approach, this program provides budgeting guidance and money management tips tailored to app workers. Read more about this limited-time offering on our website and Medium.

Take advantage of these valuable new resources provided by IDG and Drivers Benefits. We’re working hard to bring drivers the services they need most. Reach out with any questions – we’re here to help you stay healthy, wealthy, and wise this holiday season!

Driver Spotlight: Meet Illinois IDG Member Freddie Guzman

Independent Drivers Guild member Freddie Guzman has been driving for Uber and Lyft in Chicago, Illinois for over 8 years. “I started part-time to save up for a dream vacation. I enjoyed driving so much that when I had the chance to leave my job and do it full-time, I took it.”

A few years ago, Freddie had a scare that almost cost him his livelihood. “I was unfairly deactivated after declining a ride that exceeded my vehicle’s capacity. I tried to do the right thing by canceling safely, but the customer complained and said I spit in his face and drove off. Suddenly my account was deactivated, jeopardizing my livelihood over a false claim. I was lucky to get reinstated after explaining the situation, but was warned another complaint could lead to permanent deactivation, regardless of the truth. Still, I was very lucky. Very few drivers are listened to and reinstated quickly.”

“Since then, I’ve worked to help other drivers. Helping with unfair deactivations is something dear to me because I’ve experienced it. There are men and women who are trying to support families and get their accounts reactivated. So I like working with IDG on that. We’re also fighting for an ordinance around this issue in Chicago. And I try to spread awareness on social media so drivers know their rights.”

Guzman continues, “Manipulation of the apps to limit driver earnings has also become commonplace. A trip to the airport easily earned $50 just a few years ago – now we’re lucky to get $15. But our costs keep rising.”

“Rideshare driving used to be a good living. But pay cuts, algorithm manipulation, and unchecked deactivations from the companies have made it nearly impossible to survive. That’s why I’ll continue organizing alongside IDG and fellow drivers. We deserve a voice, fair treatment, and livable incomes.” Freddie is right, but we can’t do it alone. We need lawmakers, regulators, and the public to join us. Thank you to Freddie for sharing your experiences. Together, we can build a more just rideshare industry!

Have a Happy Thanksgiving from the Independent Drivers Guild

We at the Independent Drivers Guild want to wish all of our hardworking driver members a happy and restful holiday. We know many of you have to stay out on the roads during this busy travel time, working long hours to provide for your families. It’s not easy being away from loved ones on a holiday centered around togetherness. Please know that we appreciate the sacrifices you make each day.

This holiday also serves as an important reminder and opportunity to honor the history and culture of indigenous communities. We hope all drivers can take a moment during this season to reflect on those whose land we now share. Let us make this Thanksgiving not only about being thankful for what we have, but mindful of those who came before us.

Wishing everyone a safe, relaxing and thoughtful holiday weekend. The Independent Drivers Guild is thankful to represent you!

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Massachusetts Office Hours

Caffe Nero
1047 Commonwealth Ave
Boston/Allston
Tuesdays
Time: 11:00AM – 3:00PM

Boston Logan Airport
Tuesdays
Time: 3:30PM – 5:30PM

Boston Logan Airport
Every other Wednesday
Time: 11:30AM – 1:30PM

Connecticut Office Hours

Connecticut Independent Drivers Guild
157 Church St
New Haven, CT 06510
Wednesdays
Time: 10:00AM to 6:00PM

New York Office Hours

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
Time: 10:00AM – 4:00PM

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
Time: 1:00PM – 5:00PM

New Jersey Office Hours

New Jersey Independent Drivers Guild
110 Fieldcrest Avenue, 3rd Floor
Edison, New Jersey 08837
Thursdays
Time: 9:00AM to 5:00PM

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: 10:00AM to 4:00PM
Friday – Saturday: 10:00 AM to 2:00PM
Sunday: Closed