Uber in UK safety drive as it battles to secure future
The ride-hailing app says it is introducing measures to better protect passengers as it battles to secure its future in the UK.
Friday 16 February 2018 13:08, UK
Uber has moved to bolster its image through a series of measures to "enhance" passenger safety in the UK.
The ride-hailing app, which is facing threats to its operating licences in a number of UK cities including London, said it would now proactively work with police when incidents are reported and introduce a 24-hour customer support hotline.
It said customers would also get access to more information on its 50,000 UK drivers - including the person's licensing authority and private hire number.
The policy changes, Uber said, had already been implemented in London and it was currently in discussions with police forces elsewhere.
The company was rocked last year when Transport for London (TfL) refused it a new operating licence on the grounds it was not a "fit and proper operator".
The concerns outlined at the time included Uber's attitude to reporting serious crime, though it was able to continue operating in the capital pending the outcome of an appeal due in the spring.
Uber has been hit by a string of scandals, including claims of poor working conditions, sexual harassment within the company, a massive data breach and theft of self-driving technology.
Improving Uber's image has dominated the tenure of chief executive Dara Khosrowshahi who took over from founder Travis Kalanick in June last year
Just last month, Uber said it would introduce a new cap on the number of hours worked by its drivers to bolster safety and tackle concerns over their rights.
UK general manager Tom Elvidge said on Friday: "With millions of trips across the UK booked through our app each week, the safety of riders and drivers using Uber is a top priority.
"Over the last few years we've led the way with pioneering technology which enhances safety like GPS tracking of every trip and our two-way rating system.
"But we recognise we can use our technology to go even further in setting a higher standard for private hire and other transport options.
"After listening to feedback from drivers, riders, local regulators and the police we're introducing a number of new features and changes to enhance driver and passenger safety."