As reported in AutoMarketplace NYC this past August, a recent spike in violent incidents against New York City drivers has been deeply concerning, and I fear far too many TLC-regulated drivers aren’t taking advantage of the services available to them – some dating back years and others that only recently came online.
Below, are some targeted and useful safety tips for professional drivers from an online resource called Occupational Health & Safety, but before I get to that, it’s essential to remember that your health and well-being are about more than just avoiding a robbery. The Taxi Clubhouse at 161 West 22nd in Manhattan offers a vast array of amenities and services to TLC-regulated drivers, as well as a safe place to unwind, exercise, a grab coffee (or snack) and find a clean restroom. Organizations like The New York Black Car Fund (BCF) and Independent Drivers Guild are constantly looking for new ways to help drivers stay safe and healthy, and to aid them should tragedy strike.
A perfect example occurred in July, when a for-hire vehicle (FHV) driver was stabbed multiple times by a passenger attempting a carjacking as they proceeded down FDR Drive (source: ABC7 New York). The victim, 36-year-old Yadav Dhungel, received an additional $6,125 from the BCF because he took a few minutes to sign up in advance for a program launched this past year. Had Mr. Dhungel not signed up for his additional FREE benefits, he would not have received the extra money, which undoubtedly will come in handy as he recovers. As I’ve noted in the past, enrollment is free and easy. Just sign up at: https://signup.driversbenefits.org/.
In June, the BCF even added a benefit that provides financial support to drivers who face a life-threatening illness or are injured even when they aren’t working, called the “Non-Work” Accident Disability Insurance Plan. But if you don’t sign up in advance, and you get hurt or are diagnosed with a serious disease, you WILL NOT be covered. For more information, call the BCF at 833.814.8590 or visit www.nybcf.org.
Tips for Staying Safe While Transporting Passengers
According to the website, Occupational Health & Safety, which gathered the following tips from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), “If your job involves hitting the road and picking up passengers, chances are, you’re aware of all the risks just one ride can bring, including violence.”
Install a Partition or In-Vehicle Camera
Although the livery segment of NYC’s transportation industry is working with the TLC to update rules regulating partitions and in-vehicle cameras in livery vehicles, it’s worth noting the importance of having at least one or the other in your vehicle… if not, both. Since most riders sit in the back seat, a barrier between the front and back may be a smart option. But, if you find partitions cumbersome, expensive or annoying to customers, we strongly urge you to install a camera that records what happens inside and outside the vehicle. Just remember to also install signage letting every passenger know they are being recorded.
The camera and signage may not stop someone who is on drugs or is suffering from a significant mental illness, but they will dramatically improve your chances of completing your shift and getting home safely.
Utilize Communications and a System of Check-Ins
Although most drivers perform their jobs alone, establishing a simple communication or check-in schedule may help others quickly learn about safety concerns, so the police can be alerted. If a driver who consistently follows the communication schedule can’t be reached, it may indicate they are in danger.
Speaking of danger, please keep the following with you at all times, in case you face violence or witness someone being victimized: Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477), visiting www.crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers can dial (888) 57-PISTA (74782).
Stay Visible
Although many FHV drivers tint their windows to provide a level of privacy for their passengers, greater visibility into your vehicle can help reduce the risk of violence. Try to stay in well-lit, highly visible areas when not traveling. Do not tint windows to the point where people cannot see inside. And keep your windows clean and free from unneeded signs or postings.
Less Cash is Better
Depending on what segment of the industry you operate in, you may receive cash from customers during your shift. Minimize cash on hand by making deposits as often as possible. Where feasible, use cashless systems and post signage letting people know you keep a limited amount of cash on hand.
Dealing with Customers
While some customers might be aggressive or use provocative language, it’s best to not engage, whenever possible. Some simple tips include the following:
- Do not chase after fare evaders.
- Do not resist a robbery. Let robbers take your money.
- Do not accept passengers who cannot provide a destination.
Some additional tips include installing a silent alarm, using GPS tracking so you can be located if you need help and checking in regularly with a dispatcher or other driver, and practicing emergency communication systems.
“Yes, we know it can be demotivating for TLC drivers and others to continually speak about attacks on drivers, BUT it’s important,” noted AutoMarketplace NYC in August. “Sharing this information not only helps draw attention to these events but can also assist advocacy groups in reaching out to those impacted and helping other drivers take precautions.”
Stay safe, stay well, speak up, be heard…1
