A series of new introductory training videos have been developed for Uber drivers, in a bid to increase driver skills and improve road safety.
The videos, produced by AA DriveTech, will form part of the training package for new Uber drivers – as well as being communicated to all existing drivers via the Uber app.
Road safety in the so called ‘gig economy’ is under the spotlight following a study by academics from University College London in which almost two-thirds of self-employed couriers and taxi drivers said they receive no road safety training or safety equipment.
Edmund King OBE, AA president, says he is pleased to see Uber “strive towards better driving standards on the roads”.
The videos are designed to equip Uber drivers with skills that are ‘critical to their work’, including: reading the road ahead; road signs and markings; speed limits; dealing with junctions and traffic lights; and picking up and dropping off riders safely.
Edmund King OBE said: “I’m delighted that DriveTech has been able to provide Uber with this introductory training video for partner drivers.
“It is pleasing to see a business focused on passenger transport raising the profile of road safety and looking to strive towards better driving standards on the roads.”
Our platform can increase road safety awareness – Uber
Uber drivers – and those working in the wider ‘gig economy’ – have long come under scrutiny, with issues around safety regularly raised.
A 2018 study, carried out by Dr Nicola Christie and Heather Ward from the University College London (UCL) Centre for Transport Studies, found more than 60% of self-employed couriers and taxi drivers are not provided with any road safety training.
The study, recently presented at the 2019 National Road Safety Conference, included qualitative interviews with gig economy drivers and riders, and their managers, and an online survey.
63% of respondents said they are not provided with safety training on managing risks on the road, while 65% are not given any safety equipment.
However, Uber says it is determined to play its part in reducing the number of road deaths and committed to making transport safer than ever before.
Jamie Heywood, Uber’s regional general manager for northern and eastern Europe, said: “We’re proud to have partnered with DriveTech and the AA on a road safety campaign across the UK.
“With millions of journeys every week, the safety of both passengers and drivers has never been more important and these new videos will ensure that drivers are fully prepared.
“Together with recognised industry leaders, like the AA, we can use our platform to increase road safety awareness amongst the thousands of licensed private hire drivers who use the Uber app.”
All drivers would benefit from the techniques in the video – not just Uber drivers! The essence of safe driving is well put in the segment from 1.50 to 4.12.
Hugh Jones, Cheshire
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