In an unusual and potentially risky incident, a Gojek driver decided to accompany his passenger with an unexpected companion – a pet parrot perched on his shoulder, according to Lianhe Zaobao.
The incident, occurring on Nov 22 at 7 am, raised concerns about distractions and safety during rideshare journeys.
An Unexpected Avian Travel Companion
A civil servant surnamed Xiao booked a Gojek ride, only to discover a feathery surprise upon entering the car – a pet parrot casually sitting on the driver’s shoulder. Despite the absence of “Take Your Pet To Work Day,” this driver seemed to have made a unique choice.
In a rush to reach her workplace and not being allergic to birds, Xiao chose to tolerate the unconventional situation. However, as the journey progressed, the parrot became agitated, expressing its discomfort through screeching and squawking.
Compromised Driving: A Cause for Concern
The driver, attempting to soothe his feathered friend, diverted his attention from the road. With only one hand on the steering wheel, his compromised driving skills became evident as the vehicle swerved during turns. Xiao voiced her concern about the potential dangers of such distractions.
Xiao emphasized the distraction caused by the parrot and the potential risks associated with driving under such circumstances. Beyond the immediate safety concerns, she questioned the unpredictability of the parrot’s behavior, raising worries about potential attacks on passengers.
Gojek’s Commitment to Safety
In response to the incident, a Gojek spokesperson assured passengers of their commitment to creating a safe environment. The company expressed the intention to uphold standards regarding driver behavior to ensure the well-being of their riders.
Taking swift action, Gojek suspended the driver involved in the incident. The move reflects the seriousness with which the company views potential distractions and compromises to passenger safety.