Amid escalating gas prices driven by geopolitical tensions between Iran and the U.S., DoorDash has launched a relief program to assist its drivers in North America. Recognizing that fuel costs are a major expense for delivery drivers, DoorDash’s initiative aims to alleviate the financial strain on Dashers who heavily rely on their vehicles for work.
The temporary relief program, effective until April 26, provides weekly payments to eligible drivers. Those covering at least 125 miles per week stand to benefit from payments starting at $5, equating to potential savings of $1 to $1.50 per gallon. This support is particularly valuable for drivers operating in suburban and rural regions where longer travel distances are common.
In addition, DoorDash drivers using the Crimson debit card will enjoy an extra 10% cash back on gas purchases, potentially saving up to $1.90 per gallon.
For gig workers like delivery drivers, gasoline expenses represent a significant financial burden. A recent Human Rights Watch survey revealed that Texas-based gig workers spent an average of $100 weekly on fuel, equating to $2.76 per hour worked. With the current national average for regular gas nearing $3.96 per gallon, the strain on drivers is palpable.
As gas prices soar, drivers face a scenario where their fuel costs surge without commensurate pay rate increases from the platforms they serve. This imbalance, coupled with volatile delivery demands due to heightened living costs, results in drivers earning less per delivery despite maintaining or extending their working hours.
Source: TechCrunch