UTANY and Justice for App Workers Launch Caravan Protest to End Unfair Bus Lane Ticketing of FHV Drivers and Delivery Workers in NYC

Bronx FHV driver group UTANY and Justice for App Workers coalition protest for equitable solutions to protect drivers serving NYC’s most vulnerable communities

New York, NY – New York City is home to over 130,000 rideshare drivers and delivery workers who form the backbone of its transportation system. These workers ensure that millions of residents, tourists, and commuters reach their destinations safely and efficiently. Despite their essential contributions, app-based drivers face systemic challenges that threaten their livelihoods. One such issue is the rampant unfair ticketing of For-Hire Vehicle (FHV) drivers for stopping momentarily in bus lanes while assisting passengers. This practice disproportionately impacts drivers who serve vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, people with disabilities, and families with young children.

Earlier today, UTANY, with the support of the Justice for App Workers coalition, rallied to demand equitable solutions that recognize the vital role of FHV drivers and delivery workers in the city’s transit ecosystem. Drivers participated in a car caravan protest to demand an end to unfair bus lane ticketing practices targeting For-Hire Vehicle (FHV) drivers and delivery workers.

“When picking up elderly and disabled people, drivers sometimes have to wait more than five minutes, which is the grace period that Uber and Lyft give to drivers, and in that time we can get ticketed. Drivers need to be able to pick them up and drop them off in a safe area, right in front of their building, their hospital, or anywhere they need to go,” said Adalgisa Payero-Diarra, President of UTANY and a Justice for App Workers coalition leader. “We’ve come out today to make sure drivers are not unfairly ticketed for doing our jobs.”

FHV drivers and delivery workers play a vital role in New York City’s transportation system, ensuring residentsand visitors can travel safely and efficiently. However, current regulations unfairly penalize drivers with bus lane tickets when they are simply doing their jobs. These unjust practices harm not only the drivers but also the passengers they serve, particularly the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and parents with children. The protest aimed to call on New York City to end unfair bus lane ticketing, include FHV drivers in the Department of Finance (DOF) exemption system – allowing plates to be exempt from tickets when drivers are assisting passengers, reconsider passenger safety and the essential services drivers provide to the city, and ensure fair treatment for drivers while prioritizing passenger safety.