Long Time Drivers React to High Prices, Expenses: Rideshare Drivers React

[Editor’s note: Quotes are lightly edited for clarity]

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Where Have All The Lyft Drivers & Uber Drivers Gone?

The driver and courier shortage continues almost unabated, with daily stories of high surge pricing on passengers and almost total lack of drivers - particularly in busy cities, like Las Vegas and beach towns. But Uber and Lyft are offering huge bonuses to new drivers, right? So what gives?

In this video, we break down the complex reasons behind the driver shortage, including safety concerns, low pay, and more. 

Here’s what readers are saying:

Viewer Ryan shared one of the biggest complaints among drivers: low rates and long drives:

“In Southern California, driver rates have gone down to a laughable .60 cents a mile while constantly being sent on a wild goose chase 15-20 minutes across town to pick up a $3-$5 ride. This while Uber is taking a gargantuan 50% of the fare! Nether riders or drivers are happy about this. Many drivers who have driven all through the [pandemic] are now finding it a financial loss to proceed with Uber.”

Another viewer says that the increasing prices on almost everything has made driving rideshare financially unsustainable:

“Uber and Lyft are not paying enough even now. Their rental cars are very expensive and driving private cars is not worth when one calculates expenses. Gas is going up, tires have doubled, maintenance is expensive but Uber and Lyft are not supporting drivers financially.”

Chime in on the discussion here.

Uber, Lyft Drivers a Key Part of Reaching U.S. Vaccination Goals

There’s been plenty of talk about the free vaccine rides offered by Uber and Lyft until July 4, in order to reach the White House’s vaccination goal of administering at least one vaccine shot to 70% of the US adult population by that date. What are drivers saying about this initiative?

Here’s what readers are saying:

Many drivers shared they haven’t seen much of a difference with vaccine rides. Some have received ride requests to vaccination sites, and the trips have been pleasant. As one reader shared:

“I have given several vaccination rides. They have been great and work exactly like any Uber X ride. It makes me feel like I am really participating in the “Herd immunity” vaccination goal and I really feel like an “essential worker” while transporting clients. Passengers are really appreciative and their comments make me feel great that I drive for Uber.”

Chime in on the discussion here.

Uber Driver Paying To Drive THIS FARE?!?

People sign up to drive for Uber and Lyft because they make money. However, in this case, taking an Uber trip caused a driver’s account to go into the negative. How is this possible, and what do drivers think about this?

Here’s what readers are saying:

Drivers shared they also were affected by this glitch:

“I had this happen to me. I was charged $23. Uber has already sent a message about the glitch and that they are working on it and said they are also paying an extra $25 for the inconvenience.”

Another driver, clearly a longer-time driver, offers advice for new drivers who may not be paying close attention to their earnings:

“ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS check your fares and payouts. Specifically, with Uber, I’ve noticed actual earnings don’t match your Wallet total, as toll reimbursement is only included in the latter. For Lyft, any long trip bonus is reflected in “rollover” earnings, but the dashboard will have it included in the total trip’s fare. 

Both platforms can be confusing & hard to track earnings and reimbursement, but it’s a must to ensure you receive what you’re entitled to. Haven’t had issues personally, but I’ve heard enough to not trust either one. And for tolls, always check if app navigation directs you to take a toll road to get to the pickup. Uber only reimburses tolls after passenger is in your vehicle, and I assume Lyft is the same.”

Chime in on the discussion here.

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