Uber driver reinstated after appealing in San Francisco

Karim Sawadogo, an Uber driver from Denver, faced a serious problem last Halloween. After a passenger reported him for allegedly driving under the influence, Uber quickly suspended his account. This was a huge blow for Sawadogo, who relied on Uber for his income over nearly seven years and 20,000 rides. Despite being a non-drinker for religious reasons, he found himself struggling for money and forced to take on lower-paying jobs. Sawadogo took immediate action when he was questioned by police that night. He asked officers to check if he was drunk, fully aware that Uber had deactivated him without a proper investigation. The police conducted a sobriety test and sent him for further testing, confirming he wasn't under the influence. However, his troubles were just beginning. For the next nine months, Sawadogo attempted to dispute Uber’s decision through their "Review Center," but the company did not change its stance. Frustrated, he decided to fly to San Francisco to confront Uber in person. At the headquarters, his experience was initially disappointing. A desk worker dismissed him until, on his return visit, another worker took his information and reinstated his app. Now back to driving, Sawadogo's story highlights the challenges that gig workers face. As an "independent contractor," he had little recourse when Uber acted against him. Drivers like Sawadogo often feel at the mercy of the companies they work for, which can easily deactivate their accounts, leaving them without income. The situation is part of a broader issue affecting many gig workers who lack basic rights and protections.