Lyft, as well as Uber ridesharing drivers in Chicago, are decrying the decision of the city council to stall, or worse, their proposals to receive a higher salary from the platforms they serve. Here’s the scoop.
Various reactions, really
Recently, the media stated that the city council in Chicago has decided to stall, for now, that proposal to raise their wages. They’ve been driving for hours a day, so why not, right?
According to that story online, the ordinance, started, perhaps by this driver airing their grievance, was asking for the ridesharing platforms to pay their drives to around $1.50 per each mile and a bit more cents for each minute starting next year, plus add pay when drivers commute to riders or wait for new rides.
Furthermore, there will also be a minimum payout of at least $7 for each driver for every trip, requiring fare breakdowns be shared with those drivers and passengers, adding transparencies or possibilities for the deactivation of drivers from the ridesharing system.
Insights from the parties involved
However, Lyft and Uber still don’t agree with this proposal. They just blasted the ordinance, seemingly saying things should go normally.
The Chicago Gig Alliance that this employees’ union has organized is supporting what the ridesharing apps are saying. They packed the room and loudly chanted throughout the hearing that unveiled the decision.
Lobbyists, on second thought, are also airing their concerns, saying the ordinance or proposal will increase the costs of rides by over 50 percent, which threatens to make rides affordable only to the wealthiest rideshare consumers.
Then, lastly, there’s this mayor named Brandon Johnson who has repeatedly refused to take a side.
“It’s not a matter of whether or not it has my support or not, it’s just a matter of making sure that we cover all of our bases, right?” he told ridesharing media.
He likewise cited his pro-worker reputation at a news conference recently as well, saying he wishes for a policy that works for both the workers and the industry. Quite stunning.
What Lyft, Uber drivers encounter as issues
Drivers for Lyft and Uber are not spared from issues whenever they perform their jobs on the road. It’s not just about picking up their passengers, taking them to their locations, and then ordering food or drinks from McDonald’s.
First, they pay for the soaring prices of fuel, insurance, maintenance, registration, and vehicle depreciation.
Driving frequently every week and competing with other drivers on the road is also not easy. The stress is there, not to mention financial squeeze, safety delusions, and lack of human support, which are creating strain for their emotional and mental well-being. No benefits, no win.
Then, there’s the technical aspect of this. According to experts, in addition to dropping base fares, the apps are also asking for shares or commissions.
The issues will continue. Loving this story? Take your ridesharing stories and reading experience further. Sign up for your account today or keep sharing the reports of this team.