I have been seeing stories in media left and right about how some Uber drivers have been treating their riders terribly and some drivers are being put in danger by customers. However, I want to write to all Uber riders and potential drivers to let you know that not all of us are out to disrespect you, harm you, or discriminate you. Several people have asked questions about Uber that have shown skepticism. Allow me to put your skepticism to rest.
If I am disrespected by my Uber driver, how am I supposed to deal with that? There is a way to get justice. As an Uber driver, we have the right to rate you. In order for Uber to be fair to its customers, it gives customers the same right. You can rate your Uber driver, comment on their performance, and you can even report a problem. There is a 24 hour support system that helps out customers and drivers.
Isn't it dangerous? If I am being brutally honest, it really depends on the trust and respect you have for people in today's society and in your general location. I know self-defense and have mace on me at all times. If you trust your area and know how to take care of yourself in difficult situations, you will be fine as a driver.
Are you worried about the miles you would be putting on your car? I personally don't worry about it that much. Doing Uber consistently, you can make $25 an hour, and that is not including tips. My car has great gas mileage, so I get more money than I use to put in my tank. If you live in a city, you would not have to worry about it as much as someone that lives in the middle of nowhere.
How can you get in a car with a stranger?! As a driver, we are paid to get you to your destination safely. If we don't, we don't get paid. It's that simple. It is pointless to be an Uber driver if you refuse to do your job. These Uber drivers have to have background checks, driver documentation, and car documentation in order to work for Uber. Most Uber drivers are safe and friendly. However, if they are not, you need to report it immediately. Uber can fire drivers that are not providing a safe environment for their customers.
How do you have time to do this job? The beauty of Uber is that you can make your own hours. When people here that phrase, it is followed by the question, "how much does it cost me to sign up?" Uber does not charge anyone to start driving with them. It is free to sign up. It allowed me to create my own hours, go to school, and quit one of my part time jobs. It has helped me tremendously and I have more time to do what I want and when I want.
What are the requirements to sign up for Uber? You must have a driver's license, a car that is 2005 or newer, you must be at least 21 years of agedocumentation of your car registration and car insurance, and an active checking account. If you meet all of those requirements, you can become an Uber driver!
I hope this article got rid of some of the common skepticisms of Uber. Maybe I will be picking you up one day!