On social media, many viewers were stunned by a viral video showing an Uber Eats delivery driver crying after receiving a tip of just $1.19.
On TikTok, a video gained attention for featuring the Uber Eats driver’s emotional plea over the $1.19 tip after an hour-long drive.
An Uber Eats driver’s tearful video has sparked a debate about tipping and the struggles of gig workers.
Smithson Michael, known as @deliveryguy100 on TikTok, shared his emotional experience after receiving a $1.19 tip for an hour-long delivery.
An Uber driver breaks down in tears after receiving a tip.
its.smithsonmichael/Tiktok
On Tiktok platform, a user, who goes by @its.smithsonmichael shared a video on this platform.
In the footage, Michael explained that he spent over an hour driving for a food delivery.
After completing the order, he received a $1.19 tip.
Along with the small tip, the Uber Eats app only paid him $2 for the delivery.
“That’s not even enough to cover gas,” he said, highlighting the harsh realities of working for delivery services.
Michael broke into tears after a plea over a $1.19 tip following an hour-long drive
In his TikTok video, Michael revealed he is homeless and four months behind on car payments.
its.smithsonmichael/Tiktok
He expressed frustration, saying he can’t sustain himself while providing essential services. “I just wish people knew what it was like to drive for these services,” he said through tears.
The video quickly went viral and sparked debate on social media
The video drew mixed reactions. Many viewers expressed sympathy, blaming large corporations for exploiting workers.
In the commment selection, some viewers sent Michael money, others admitted they could barely afford to tip.
its.smithsonmichael/Tiktok
One person said: I feel you bro, and it stillstands true. lost my job last week so I started doing food delivery. I make $65 a day, just enough to fill my gas tank.
A second wrote: No offense bro. I always tip but it really needs to be doordash paying more. They charged us a 5 dollar service fee and food is like $3 above price.
While a third commented: You have to remember that people who order from UberEATS pay service fee, delivery fee, taxes and tip. And the meal cost more than it would if you.
Another added: Just the other day i ordered 40$ of food and gave 12$ to my uber eats delivery. People need to stop ordering food if you cant afford tipping.
Someon else said: Just the other day i ordered 40$ of food and gave 12$ to my uber eats delivery. People need to stop ordering food if you cant afford tipping
its.smithsonmichael/Tiktok
Uber eats’ profit struggles
Despite Uber Eats’ popularity, the company has faced financial difficulties.
Uber reported a nearly $6.77 billion loss, with the food delivery segment growing rapidly during the pandemic.
However, the company noted that payments to drivers often exceed the delivery fees paid by customers.
its.smithsonmichael/Tiktok
Michael’s emotional plea sheds light on the financial struggles faced by gig workers.
His story has fueled a conversation about tipping, wages, and corporate responsibility.
As food delivery services grow, so does the need for fair compensation and better treatment of drivers.
What did you think about this incident/