Snow and Ice Drive Increased Demand for Car Services in Williamsburg

Ongoing snow and icy conditions across Brooklyn are making it difficult for many residents to get around on foot or by car, pushing more riders to rely on car services and taxis—especially in neighborhoods like Williamsburg.

Local drivers report a noticeable increase in requests from riders who are worried about slipping on untreated sidewalks or navigating icy streets. Williamsburg-based driver Tony Pacheco says many passengers are choosing car services simply to avoid the risks of walking in hazardous conditions.

“When the streets are icy, people are nervous about falling,” Pacheco explained. “Even short trips become difficult, so demand for car services definitely goes up.”

However, the rise in ridership comes with serious challenges for drivers. Pacheco, who works with New Brooklyn Car Service, described getting stuck during the storm and relying on help from nearby residents to free his vehicle. According to company president Peter Caba, weather concerns have kept roughly a quarter of the fleet off the road, with about 20 out of 80 drivers either unable or unwilling to drive due to unsafe conditions.

While conditions have slowly improved in the days following the storm, drivers say hazards remain. Main roads and avenues are largely cleared, but many side streets are still packed with snow and ice. Drivers are also dealing with chunks of hardened snow being pushed back into roadways, which can damage low-clearance vehicles and create new safety risks.

“The streets aren’t fully safe yet,” Pacheco noted. “Ice being thrown back into the road can cause serious damage to cars and puts drivers at risk.”

NYSFTD Urges Patience and Support for Drivers

The New York State Federation of Taxi Drivers (NYSFTD) is urging riders to show patience and appreciation for drivers who continue to work through dangerous conditions.

“Tips and patience matter now more than ever,” said Fernando Mateo, spokesman for NYSFTD. “Many drivers are choosing to stay home because the roads are simply too dangerous. Those who are still working are taking real risks to make sure patients and essential riders can get where they need to go.”

NYSFTD President Steven Rivera emphasized that drivers are operating under extreme conditions and cannot provide normal service levels during severe weather.

“Our drivers understand how critical these trips are, especially for patients and essential travel,” Rivera said. “They are putting themselves at risk on icy roads to serve New Yorkers who depend on them. We ask riders to plan ahead and allow extra travel time.”

As winter weather continues, NYSFTD reminds the public that supporting drivers—through patience, fair tipping, and realistic expectations—helps ensure that vital transportation services remain available when they are needed most. Press Links News 12 News 12 | Brooklyn | Car services, taxi drivers seeing influx of riders traveling in snow, ice in Williamsburg