More than 50 Uber drivers were injured during a 24-hour strike in Los Angeles on Monday, as protesters clashed with police and vandalized vehicles, police said.
The drivers, who are demanding better pay and working conditions, blocked traffic on major highways and intersections throughout the city.
The strikes began at 6am local time on Monday and lasted until the same time on Tuesday, according to a statement from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
During the strike, protesters threw rocks and bottles at police, vandalized vehicles and set fire to trash cans, LAPD said.
The drivers are part of a national movement to organize Uber and Lyft drivers, who are classified as independent contractors and not entitled to the same benefits as employees.
The drivers’ union, the Independent Drivers Guild, is demanding a $2.50 per ride surcharge, an end to deactivations without cause, and a formal grievance process.
The union also wants Uber and Lyft to provide drivers with health insurance, paid time off, and workers’ compensation.
Uber said in a statement that it is committed to working with drivers to address their concerns.
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