How to handle crying Uber passengers - Daily Drive 44

Wow, sometimes the things we Uber drivers must deal with are challenging. Sometimes, we must deal with passengers crying uncontrollably, like the young woman in the video. Alcohol, drugs, emotions, youth—there's so much going on that it gets the best of us. For you and me as drivers, handling these situations can be challenging. Part of me wants to pull over, be kind, and offer help, while another part knows I have no business getting involved.

If I saw her on the street, would I try to help? Maybe. It's a tough call. Here are some thoughts to help you and me navigate these emotional rides:

1. Remember, It's Temporary

Even the craziest moments in our cars are temporary. That's why I like short trips—if things get wild, they end quickly. I once picked up women from a hotel in Syracuse and drove them to Binghamton. It was over an hour of one woman yelling at her dad on the phone while the baby cried. It was intense. But, it ended.

2. Control Your Emotions

Since these situations are temporary, do your best to get through them. Think about yourself and how to stay emotionally detached. We don't know our passengers, and we don't need to get emotionally involved. As stress levels rise, focus on controlling your own emotions. Sometimes, it feels like your car is damaged and nerve-wracking, but try to stay calm.

3. Communicate Clearly

Take control of the situation with clear communication. In the video with the crying girl, it was a short trip, and her friend was there comforting her. I just drove quietly. But when kids are alone and crying in my car, I listen, acknowledge their pain, and show empathy. Their emotions are real, even if it's something like a breakup. I let them talk and recognize their feelings.

Instead of trying to solve their problems, I listen. We're just Uber drivers; we can only solve some things. Sometimes, people just need to vent, and our cars become a sanctuary for them to release their stress.

Some drivers might turn around and tell them to keep it down or threaten to kick them out. Still, I handle it by understanding that it's temporary, controlling my emotions, and giving them space to cry. We all need that sometimes.

Do you have tips or tricks for handling these situations? How do you deal with a passenger getting upset? It's tough, and I wish non-drivers understood what we go through.

Thank you so much for being part of this community. I aim to produce content that educates, inspires, entertains, and enlightens. I want you to thrive as a driver, so please engage with the community, like, subscribe, join our Facebook group, and become a member of Thrive. I'm cheering for you.

Be well, be safe. Bye!