First-of-its-kind agreement brings new insights, security investments, and support services to keep the District safe
At DoorDash, safety has and will continue to be a top priority. We work constantly to help keep all members of our community — Dashers, customers, and merchants — safe. Since launching SafeDash™ – our in-app safety toolkit powered by ADT – in 2021, we’ve launched 11 additional safety features, including SafeChat, Real-Time Safety alerts, porch light reminders for customers and more. Thanks to these efforts, the overwhelming majority of deliveries – more than 99.99% – are completed without any safety-related incident at all.
However, we recognize that sharing the streets in the cities that we serve also means sharing their challenges. Local leaders are meeting the moment by re-thinking the ways we address public safety and bringing a fresh approach to decades-old problems through a more holistic approach.
Washington, DC has been at the forefront of this effort, as the Metropolitan Police Department has been exploring new and innovative ways to better support its officers and strengthen public safety. We know that we can help support these efforts, as our commitment to safety extends beyond just our platform: we’re committed to contributing to the safety of everyone in the broader community.
That’s why we’re proud to announce a new partnership with Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Metropolitan Police Department on a comprehensive, first-of-its-kind program to scale up safety efforts across Washington, DC. The announcement today reflects our shared commitment to supporting ambitious safety initiatives in the District by providing the tools, resources, and collaboration needed to ensure a safer DC.
Empowering With Insights
As part of the partnership, DoorDash and Metropolitan Police Department will collaborate to share real-time insights to inform strategies, develop new products and policies, and craft relevant safety tips to better keep Dashers safe.
DoorDash will also launch a new dedicated and streamlined process for MPD to work with our Law Enforcement Response Team, making it easier to process valid legal record requests like subpoenas as part of our existing guidelines and allowing law enforcement authorities to get information they need when they need it.
Investing In Security
Building on the success of the District’s Private Security Camera Incentive program, which aims to help deter neighborhood crime and assist law enforcement with investigations, DoorDash will support the District’s establishment of its Mobile Delivery and Rideshare Camera Program for Dashers and other delivery workers. Expanding access to these dash cams will help participating Dashers feel more comfortable when out dashing, support MPD investigations in the event of an incident, or even help to combat crime before it happens.
Enhancing Support Services
Crucial to these efforts will be bringing in community partners that can contribute to the safety and well-being of everyone in the District. In addition to these initiatives, DoorDash is making donations the DC Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants to enable them to offer victims of crime with food and essentials in times of need. Additionally, DoorDash will partner with ServeDC on hosting workshops focused on safety and tips to avoid crime for Dashers.
“We know that video evidence can be crucial for solving crimes and closing cases. That’s why we are deploying dash cams for food delivery drivers and rideshare drivers,” said DC Mayor Muriel Bowser. “This is about using every tool at our disposal when it comes to public safety. We’re making commonsense updates to our legislation, including expanded protections for-hire vehicle workers. We’re getting dash cams out. We’re getting wheel locks out. If someone comes to us with a good idea, we are ready to be your partner.”
“Advancing the safety of Dashers and our entire community is incredibly important to everyone at DoorDash,” said John Horton, Global Head of Public Engagement. “The Bowser administration has been tireless in advancing public safety, and we are proud to bolster their efforts by providing the tools and resources to ensure that Dashers feel safe, secure, and supported. We look forward to taking this bold step with Mayor Bowser and the Metropolitan Police Department as we work together towards achieving a safer future for everyone in the District.”
We understand there is always room to enhance safety for all, and this partnership is only the beginning of our work with Washington, DC. We look forward to working closely with Mayor Bowser, the Metropolitan Police Department, and additional stakeholders to keep the District safe.
