Bengaluru-based pastry artist Joonie Tan shared a recent unsettling experience during a cab ride, shedding light on a common concern: drivers using their phones while driving. Tan, a well-known pastry chef at Lavonne Cafe with a strong Instagram following, took to social media to narrate her distressing journey. She described how her Uber driver's continuous phone conversations throughout the ride resulted in a severe headache.
Originally hailing from Malaysia, Tan's frustration stemmed from her discomfort and sparked a crucial conversation about road safety. Sharing on her Instagram Stories, she expressed, "The Uber driver keeps talking on the phone. I'm getting a headache from his non-stop chatter.”
She also raised concerns about whether Uber strictly enforces rules prohibiting drivers from using phones while driving, posing risks to passengers and other road users. Following the incident, Tan took immediate action by filing a formal complaint with Uber.
Additionally, she suggested three alternative measures: politely asking the driver to stop using the phone, using noise-cancelling headphones, or reporting the incident through the app.
"Hopefully when they see enough reports on such matters, the company will take this up seriously," she said. Her post garnered swift attention, igniting conversations among her more than 52,000 followers about the responsibilities ride-sharing companies bear in ensuring passenger safety.
The day after, Uber addressed Tan's complaint, acknowledging the concern and issuing an apology. In a message shared by Tan, Uber said, "Uber partners are expected to uphold a high standard of professional service during all trips. This includes ensuring a safe and comfortable ride for passengers. Reports of unsafe driving are treated with utmost seriousness."
Additionally, the company reassured Tan that they would conduct a thorough review of the driver-partner's account and had implemented measures to ensure she would not be matched with the same driver again in the future.
"We have also taken steps to prevent your account from being paired with this driver partner for future trip requests made through the app," Uber said.
"Uber India called and emailed. Hoping this is not just a courtesy call and real action to be taken,” Tan informed.