Whether it’s a late-night trip to Five Points or a ride home from class when you’re feeling lazy, your Uber driver has your back. It’s easy to hop in, grab the aux cord, and not care about what he/she is thinking about you, but we spoke with an Uber driver and found out five things they want you to know… to make it a pleasant experience for everyone.
1. Be friendly.
Driving can be boring, especially if you’re more focused on your phone versus the people around you. Have a conversation that goes beyond, “how’s your night going?” or “is it busy out tonight?” Some of the best advice we’ve been given has come from Uber drivers. They have cool stories and are dying for some entertainment (blasting Nicki Minaj and rolling the windows down doesn’t count as entertainment).
2. Don’t pay surge prices.
If the demand for cars in an area is high, the price will skyrocket. What riders don’t realize is you can either wait 10 minutes or walk two blocks and your price will drop. Save money from that $20 Uber and buy yourself a vodka soda downtown.
3. Uber ratings are important.
Always rate your Uber driver 5 stars unless they did something wrong. Your driver looks at your rating too, and many drivers will deny pick up if you have a bad rating. Keep that in mind when you make them wait 10 minutes at your apartment because you weren’t ready yet.
4. Drivers are not babysitters.
Don’t send your drunk friend home in an Uber alone. The driver shouldn’t be the one that has to worry about your blackout friend getting home safe.
5. Tipping isn’t necessary, but that doesn’t mean you should never do it.
If your Uber driver takes you through the Cookout drive through at 2 a.m., it might be a good idea to leave them a tip. You can’t leave a tip on the app, but you can always leave a few dollars in cash for the inconvenience.
Happy Ubering everyone!