[ad_1]
Uber and Lyft must do more to support passengers with disabilities, especially those who are blind or visually impaired, according to protesters who gathered outside the companies’ headquarters on October 15.
Wired Talk to the protesters Who shared stories of drivers passing them by or refusing to let them bring their guide dogs on a trip. They said ride-hailing companies should do more to educate drivers about accommodating passengers with visual impairments, and should practice a “zero tolerance” policy for discriminatory drivers.
“We strive to provide a comprehensive and accessible platform for riders, including those who rely on service animals,” a Lyft spokesperson said. They said the company is “working directly with advocacy organizations in the community” and also noted an upcoming “service animal subscription feature” that should launch by 2025.
The company mentioned this feature earlier this month, in New product manager profile, Shreya Shankar, who said this will allow passengers to “declare that they have a service animal” (they will only need to do this once), so the driver will be notified before pickup.
“This way there shouldn’t be any surprises — or confusion or frustration of being stranded,” Shankar said.
[ad_2]