Ride-Sharing: Pros, Cons, & Other Things You Need to Know
You've probably heard of services like Uber and Lyft before, ride-sharing apps that allow you to call up a ride from your phone, and pay without ever having to open your wallet. But if you've ever wanted to to learn a bit more about them, or the pros and cons of using them, Heritage Hyundai Towson has got you covered.
1) How they work
Both Uber and Lyft (and most other ride-sharing services) require you to download their app and enter your credit card information. When an Uber rider needs to go somewhere, they simply enter their pickup location, their destination, and then pick the type of car they'd like (high-end sedan, everyday car, SUV, luxury vehicle, or a taxi that has an agreement with Uber). After that, the app takes care of the rest.
Lyft works almost identically to Uber, with some exceptions: Your options are Lyft or LyftPlus (if you have more than four people or a lot of luggage); and you can tip your driver if you like, which is added to your total fee. Also, Lyft vehicles have a pink mustache to indicate that they're with Lyft.
2) Pros
-The apps are very easy to use
-Thanks to GPS coordinates, you can see where your driver is with a high degree of accuracy
-Typically cheaper than a cab
-Both Uber and Lyft have codes you can get (recommending someone to Uber, for example) that can net you a free ride/up to $20 off
-Both Uber and Lyft have rating systems (for drivers and passengers alike). Drivers with low ratings won't be picked by passengers, and passengers with low ratings won't get picked up by drivers
3) Cons
-Be aware of surge pricing--both Lyft and Uber increases its fees when demand for their vehicles is high, so if it's late at night (or a holiday), be aware of how much you're paying
-Oftentimes, ride-sharing vehicles can't (legally) pick you up at airports due to licensing restrictions
-Drivers aren't required to be cabbies or chauffeurs (unless you've requested UberBlack or UberTaxi), so they may not be familiar with roads, traffic, etc.