Uber is expanding to more Lower Mainland municipalities

Ride-hailing operator Uber has announced that it is expanding further into more municipalities across the Lower Mainland.

As of 11 am on Thursday, the company will begin operating in Abbotsford, Aldergrove, and Langley Township.

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Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Uber has also implemented new safety features and policies to keep riders and drivers safe, which include:

• Go Online checklist: Riders and drivers will confirm safety precautions to help stop the spread of COVID-19 including a selfie confirmation to ensure drivers are wearing a face mask or cover;
• Driver screening: Everyone who drives with Uber is screened before their first trip. In addition, Uber reruns these driver screenings every year and uses technology to look for issues in between.
• 24/7 safety support: If you need safety support or assistance, Uber’s dedicated and trained support team is available at all times to provide help.
• Phone anonymization: Privacy is a top priority at Uber. The Uber app conceals driver and rider phone numbers so they are able to securely call/text each other through the app without revealing their information.
• Emergency button access: Both riders and drivers can contact 911 directly from the Uber app and provide a GPS location and trip details with authorities in emergency situations.

In addition to these new features and policies, Uber is distributing personal protective equipment (PPE) to help keep delivery people and drivers safe as they serve their communities. Drivers and delivery people can request these supplies and have them shipped directly to their homes.

In May, the company stated face masks would be mandatory for Uber drivers and riders.