Join Us in Celebrating New Milestones: Watch and Share our IDG in Action Video on Facebook

As we drive into a new year, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the incredible milestones and victories we’ve achieved together in the past year in a video that showcases the victories we’ve won to improving driver wages, working conditions, and lives across the nation.

Join us in celebrating these triumphs – watch and share our IDG in Action video on Facebook! By sharing our stories, we’re not just spreading awareness; we’re reaching new drivers with a message of hope by highlighting the collective strength and resilience we can have when we organize together. Thank you for being a part of our community, and a part of our movement. Together, we drive change! Watch and share the video here.

Storms Around the Country: Resources for Severe Weather

Storms and dangerous conditions are picking up throughout the country. If you have to work during bad weather, please keep these resources and tips in mind:

• New York Drivers – make sure you’re enrolled in your Drivers Benefits before you get on the road. Only enrolled drivers will be covered by Personal Accident Insurance, Accidental Disability Insurance, and Accidental Death Insurance from The Black Car Fund. Click here to enroll for free. 
• If you are in an accident and need help – check out your state’s Accident Support and Legal Assistance – provided by IDG. 
• Check the weather forecast before heading out and reconsider if conditions are risky.
• Prepare your vehicle—check tires, brakes, wipers, and have necessary tools like a shovel.
• Drive cautiously with passengers, adjust speed for poor visibility, and ensure their comfort.
• Stay focused and avoid distractions, maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles.
• Prioritize safety with rough roads—don’t take unnecessary risks.
• Dress appropriately and carry supplies for emergencies, including snacks and a first aid kit.
• Plan routes on well-maintained, treated roads and avoid back roads prone to hazards.
• Keep the car warm enough for passengers, considering their comfort.
• Invest in waterproof floor mats to protect your vehicle’s interior from weather-related mess.
• Watch out for black ice, especially on curves and bridges, and be aware of other drivers’ behavior.
• Learn how to drive in snow—drive slower, avoid sudden braking, use low gears, and don’t spin your wheels if stuck.

Staying Vigilant: Important Safety Tips for Rideshare Drivers

A recent string of distressing incidents have targeted drivers in the Austin area on Chicago’s west side, and other states around the country. We mourn the tragic loss of two Illinois drivers in December and send our heartfelt wishes for the swift recovery of another driver currently in critical condition after a recent IL carjacking attempt. As we continue to advocate for the app companies to implement systemic changes to address the safety and well-being of drivers on a larger scale, it’s crucial we also take proactive measures in these times of heightened risks. 

To safeguard yourself, please join us in heeding these essential safety precautions whenever you’re on the road:

1. Stay vigilant for groups of 3 to 4 young men dressed in all-black attire, especially hoodies and masks, and do not engage if confronted. 

2. Utilize a dash cam as a deterrent, consider removing identifying stickers or logos, and keep a spare set of keys hidden discreetly. 

3. For added security, have a ‘bunk’ wallet containing expired cards and IDs to surrender if necessary, while keeping your real wallet concealed. 

4. Be prepared to release your seatbelt swiftly if you sense danger when passengers enter your vehicle. 

5. Never fight for your vehicle. If someone wants to take your vehicle, let them. Your car is not worth your life.

Your safety matters immensely, and we urge everyone to prioritize precautionary measures during these challenging times.

Great News: Expanded Office Hours for New Jersey Drivers

Exciting news for all New Jersey drivers! We’re thrilled to announce that our NJ office hours are now open on Fridays in addition to Thursdays. Located at 110 Fieldcrest Avenue, 3rd Floor, Edison, New Jersey 08837, our doors are open exclusively during the following office hours:

🕘 Thursdays: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

🕙 Fridays: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

These expanded hours aim to ensure that drivers have greater accessibility to resources, guidance, and solidarity. We’re committed to building collective strength and advocating for improved pay and better working conditions. Join us in our efforts to make a meaningful impact and drive positive change within our community. Your involvement and support are key as we continue this journey together.

In-Car Advertising Bill Passes for NYC Uber and Lyft Drivers

Announcing a new win for New York City Drivers! After we fought for it, the New York City Council approved in-car advertising for Uber and Lyft vehicles. Thank you to Independent Drivers Guild ally and City Council Majority Leader Amanda Farías for her steadfast leadership on this issue. The measure paves the way for drivers to secure additional potential earnings of up to $100 a month through advertising opportunities within our vehicles, while also emphasizing and encouraging tipping, a crucial component of our livelihoods. We look forward to further updates on this development as we commit to getting drivers the best deal possible for advertising. 

Driver Spotlight: Meet IDG New Jersey Member Ali Bangagne

Ali Bangagne is proud to be an IDG member. With IDG’s ongoing commitment to advocacy, Ali feels empowered to contribute to our fight creating a more equitable and sustainable future for rideshare drivers.

“I’ve been driving Uber and Lyft for 5 years. I registered with IDG 2 years ago, and I feel more confident driving with this union by my side. In addition to assisting drivers when facing issues with the app companies, IDG provides us with a bunch of benefits for health, training, and advice. I urge all drivers to join IDG and help get better conditions.” 

Remembering the Incredible Life and Lasting Legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

As we commemorate the remarkable life and enduring legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., we honor his commitment to justice, equality, and the empowerment of marginalized communities. Dr. King’s tireless advocacy for civil rights resonates deeply with our mission to secure rights, protections, and equitable treatment for rideshare drivers, who largely comprise immigrant and people of color communities across the United States.

Like Dr. King, we stand at the forefront of a movement striving to ensure fairness and dignity in the workplace, championing the rights of those often overlooked. As we remember his invaluable contributions, we recommit ourselves to the ongoing struggle for justice, equity, and respect for all drivers within the app industry, carrying forward Dr. King’s spirit of activism and social change.

Get support 

Check out IDG Chapter Websites for Holiday Closures

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!