Drowsy driving is an issue for all who share the road. Research shows that many people doze off behind the wheel. Additionally, driving when too tired amounts to careless driving, which is prohibited across Canada.

While most driver-partners use the Uber app less than 10 hours a week, we want to do our part to help prevent drowsy driving. That’s why we’re launching a new feature that prompts drivers to go offline for 6 straight hours from the app after a total of 12 hours of driving time. The move will help drivers avoid careless driving and keep everyone safe on the road while preserving the flexibility drivers tell us they love.

Here’s how it works:

  • The feature will count driving time, making it easy for drivers to keep tabs on how long they’ve been driving with Uber.
  • It provides periodic notifications when approaching the 12-hour driving time limit and then automatically goes offline for six straight hours when the max has been reached
  • After the six hours, drivers can go online again to receive trip requests

Our Community Guidelines make clear that it’s important to go offline when feeling tired. But experts agree, raising more public awareness on this issue is key.

“Uber’s commitment to adopt best practice and innovating in an evolving market is aligned with the goals of zero serious injuries and fatalities on our roadways. As a traffic safety systems user, Uber has a large megaphone to amplify best practices for safer roads,” said Alex Kelly, Director of the Vision Zero Advocate Institute. “Applying technology as a solution to help address something like drowsy driving is an important opportunity to not only protect the Uber driver-partner and rider community, but also do their part to contribute to a safer transportation system.”

At Uber, we’re constantly looking at new ways to use technology to contribute to safety in our communities. 

We want to promote safe and responsible use of our app. To learn more about our safety program in Canada, click here.

Note: Different driving time limits may apply in some cities due to local regulations