Rideshare drivers have to put up with a lot. They drive around all day, run the risk of getting into accidents, spend time with strangers and share their car space. If you want to become a rideshare driver, here are seven things you need to know.
1. You Will Earn More
If you want to earn more than you are earning right now, become a rideshare driver. Uber and Lyft drivers make some of the highest hourly pay rates in the country. According to Business Insider, an average Uber driver earns $19 an hour after fuel and vehicle maintenance costs. During peak hours, some drivers could even make $30 an hour. Of course, these figures may vary, depending on your location and experience level, but at least you know that becoming a driver can earn you more than your usual salary.
2. You Need a Car That Qualifies
New drivers can only drive new cars. This is because Uber and Lyft have sophisticated rating systems to keep bad drivers off the road. The lowest rating for a driver is 4 (out of 5) stars. To get this rating, most drivers must have a good driving record, proper training, and other requirements, such as owning a car that meets the ridesharing company’s insurance policy requirements.
3. You Can Make More Money With Kindness and Politeness
Services such as Uber and Lyft rely on customers’ ratings for their drivers. If you want to maintain a high rating, be friendly and polite. Driving for Uber should not feel like working for someone. The company always encourages its drivers to be friendly and chat with the riders.
4. In Case of an Accident, You Can Be Protected
As an Uber and Lyft driver, you will have insurance coverage if you get into an accident. This may not cover all your losses, but at least it’s better than none. Besides, it’s nice to know that Uber and Lyft aim to protect their drivers should they find themselves involved in accidents. In the event of a claim, drivers are assisted by the ridesharing companies’ partners, and drivers can expect a safe driving bonus. Also, if you reside in Texas, a Houston truck accident lawyer can help you with your case if you need legal advice.
5. You Have a Chance to Become a Manager
Most drivers do not earn the opportunity to become a manager. Why? Because the position of Uber and Lyft managers is based on seniority, and they can attain this level only after driving with Lyft or Uber for around a year. However, there are ways to become a manager, even if you start driving with Uber or Lyft as early as six months after you begin with them.
6. You Can Choose Which Kind of Ride You Want to Take
Ridesharing can be both exciting and exhausting. If you’re new to ridesharing, it’s best to try different rides to get used to the experience. You can choose between ridesharing services, such as UberX, UberXL, and Uber Black. You can also become a driver-partner for a company like Lyft, which offers these three services.
If you want to become a driver and use your car, your insurance coverage will depend on the service you opt for. Uber Black offers the highest coverage and is the most expensive. UberX is the cheapest and does not offer much insurance coverage. If you decide to use your car, you need to make sure that the car meets Uber’s insurance policy requirements. For example, UberX drivers must choose whether they want their coverage provided by Uber or their insurance provider.
7. You Need a Vehicle that Qualifies
Before you start driving for ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft, be sure your vehicle meets their requirements. For example, you can’t use a car older than ten years. It must be in good condition and have all the proper maintenance.
Closing Remarks
In conclusion, if you’re a ridesharing driver, you must know how to drive safely. You need to ensure that your car is always in good condition and has all the necessary maintenance. Also, Uber or Lyft will not give you your Uber or Lyft earnings until they are sure your vehicle meets the requirements for ridesharing service.
