DoorDash taking steps to combat 'dangerous' delivery driving in several cities

BOSTON (TND) — DoorDash on Monday unveiled efforts to combat “dangerous” driving in several major U.S. cities, beginning with Boston.

The announcement came more than a month after the Boston police commissioner reportedly demanded the company address the issue.

DoorDash said it will create a point of contact with the Boston Police Department, as well as a channel to escalate concerns, to more quickly and easily process the agency’s requests for legal records. The efforts coincide with what the company claimed is an established process for police working with its “Law Enforcement Response Team.”

The company says it plans to roll out the streamlined communication with its Law Enforcement Response Team to several other cities after launching in Boston.

Delivery drivers risk removal from DoorDash if they break traffic laws, according to the company. In a letter obtained by MassLive, Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox and Chief of Streets Jascha Franklin-Hodge wrote last month that there was an increase in illegal and “dangerous” motorcycle, moped and scooter driving.

Many of the deliverers were using unregistered vehicles and driving on sidewalks, going the opposite direction of one-way streets, speeding and getting into accidents, according to the officials.

Our residents’ concerns echo those of City officials. We expect all companies operating in the City of Boston to prioritize the safety of our residents and visitors,” the officials wrote. “The consistent failure of those operating on your behalf to abide by rules and regulations indicates a concerning lack of oversight and care in regard to public safety.”

DoorDash said it has “zero tolerance” for dangerous driving and has collaborated with cities to support law enforcement efforts. The company also announced a public service announcement campaign to share warnings against law-breaking and guidance from public safety agencies about vehicle registration. DoorDash also plans to accelerate the account verification process for drivers.

The officials told DoorDash the city had begun distributing materials on the company’s obligation to ensure drivers deliver safely and with registered vehicles. Boston was also issuing traffic citations and would hold DoorDash responsible for continued violations by its drivers, the officials added.

“You must ensure delivery drivers operating on your behalf understand and abide by the relevant statutory requirements and local regulations when operating within the city,” they wrote.

Have questions, concerns or tips? Send them to Ray at rjlewis@sbgtv.com.