While driving for a rideshare app is a way for many to support their family, the reality of long hours and unknown passengers carries risks.
If you are ever robbed while on the job, remember that your safety is the absolute priority. Money and devices are replaceable, but you are not. Here’s exactly what to do to prioritize your safety:
1. Prioritize Your Immediate Safety
If a passenger threatens you, focus on de-escalation:
- Stay calm
- Avoid unnecessary eye contact
- Comply with their demands rather than fighting back.
Once the passenger exits the vehicle, drive to a well-lit, populated area before stopping. Your goal is to put distance between yourself and the threat as quickly as possible.
2. Contact the Police Immediately
Even if you are not physically injured, a robbery is a serious crime, and the police will respond. You have two ways to handle this, depending on your situation:
- Call 911 if the incident just happened: If you are still near the scene and the suspect might be in the area, call 911. Dispatchers prioritize robberies because the suspect may be armed. The police will come to your location.
- Go to the precinct if you have driven away: If you are already in a safe, different neighborhood, it is often more efficient to drive to the nearest police precinct to file your report. If possible, go to the precinct that covers the area where the robbery occurred to ensure the investigation starts immediately.
3. Notify Your App
Use the safety or help section within your app to report the incident. Be sure to include the trip time, the specific route taken, and details of what occurred.
To protect yourself, take screenshots of all communication with the company to ensure you have a permanent record of the report.
4. Seek Medical and Emotional Support
Shock can often mask physical pain, so you should see a doctor immediately if you were hit, pushed, or threatened with a weapon.
Beyond physical injuries like concussions, the emotional trauma (such as anxiety and sleep loss) deserves professional care.
When documenting the aftermath, try to preserve the following evidence:
- Dashcam footage and photos of any injuries.
- Damaged property or torn clothing.
- Medical records and your police report number.
5. Know Your Rights in New York
If you drive in New York City and were injured while working, you may be eligible for benefits through The Black Car Fund. This fund provides workers’ compensation specifically for rideshare and black car drivers, which can cover medical bills, lost wages, and mental health services. You do not have to navigate this recovery alone.
Injured by a Passenger? IDG Legal Can Help.
If you or a driver you know has been assaulted, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses and emotional suffering. IDG Legal’s preferred lawyers specialize in filing with The Black Car Fund and other compensation claims protecting driver rights.
Tap below and submit your form or call us at (646) 687-7587 if you need help today.
