The deaf can do anything…including drive for Uber! Recently, a deaf man named Onur has been sweeping the internet after a rider posted a picture of a note on the back of his seat (see left): It explains that he’s deaf and all communication needs to be through text or written notes. He even mentions his love of bass-heavy music!
According to Uber’s website, a deaf driver has options within the app to make it accessible. These features include flashing ride alerts and sending an alert to riders that the driver is deaf. It even turns off the option to call the uber, replacing it with a text messaging option!
The National Association of the Deaf (NAD) even gave their praise:
“The NAD applauds the efforts of Uber to promote increased work opportunities for deaf and hard-of-hearing drivers. Moreover, we commend Uber for enhancing their mobile app to improve communications between drivers and passengers, regardless of whether they are hearing or deaf.”
Howard Rosenblum, Chief Executive Officer, NAD
Lyft also has accessibility options for their deaf and hard-of-hearing drivers, including a link to a tutorial that teaches you how to say ‘Thank You’ in ASL! How cool is that?