It's unrealistic to expect a tip for every ride, but certain moments can boost your earnings. Anticipate tips when you go above and beyond for customers or when they promise one for an extra favor, like a quick stop. However, remember that promised tips in the app often don't materialize. Stay proactive, provide excellent service, and engage with riders to enhance the chances of receiving a tip.

Driving rideshare can be a wild ride, especially with pickups from rehab and psych wards. Riders often test your patience, presenting challenges that can range from trying to offload a drunken friend to transporting a patient back to a mental health facility. Sometimes, you may not grasp the situation until you arrive. So stay vigilant—you never know what surprises

Many passengers are noticing a steep decline in driver quality. Dedicated drivers invest time and money keeping their cars spotless, yet they often face unreasonably low paying fares. This ultimately leaves passengers encountering poorly maintained cars and subpar experiences. So, where have all the reliable drivers gone?

As a rideshare driver, I often find myself in the role of an unexpected therapist. Many people hop into my vehicle, ready to divulge their life stories and secrets—often more freely than they might in a confession. One unforgettable trip was a commercial pilot who, despite his success, opened up about feelings of hopelessness and regret. His honesty emphasized how anonymity fosters connections.

Driving rideshare once promised freedom and flexibility, but the current reality is more challenging for drivers. With increasing living expenses, the costs of vehicle upkeep, and an oversaturated market have made it hard to turn a profit. Adapting to this new reality is essential for success.

I finally gave a ride to someone I knew while driving for Uber—my property manager! As she got into my car, her messy appearance and the strong smell of alcohol were surprising, revealing a wild night out. But don’t worry, your secret is safe with me—at least until you decide to hike up my rent!

Wondering about the best vehicle for driving rideshare with Uber or Lyft? The answer is simple: stick with your current car! Keeping your existing vehicle means no additional expenses or stress from car payments. When you decide to upgrade, make sure it’s a choice that serves your personal and family needs first, as rideshare is often a temporary gig.

Gig workers frequently face criticism from those who insist their work is beneath them and suggest they should get a “real job.” But what does that mean? Is it about pay, prestige, or job titles? I explore these misconceptions, drawing on ideas from David Graeber’s Bullshit Jobs to highlight how rideshare and delivery jobs are not only legitimate but provide essential services to our economy.

Uber and Lyft developed their driver apps with appealing cash incentives to attract and retain drivers, backed by substantial investor funds. However, as they look for ways to engage drivers without relying solely on monetary rewards, a concerning trend has emerged: reduced incentives. This shift risks driving away experienced drivers, leaving only less skilled drivers on the road.

I’ve always followed my Golden Rules to ensure a positive experience for my riders and me. One of my original rules was to have riders verify their name before entering my vehicle. However, I realized that being strict about not sharing their name often led to awkward starts and negative ratings. Recently, I chose to relax this rule, and the results have been amazing!

After years of driving and thousands of rides as a rideshare driver, I’ve learned invaluable lessons—many through my own mistakes! That’s why I developed my 5 Golden Rules to help you maximize your experience. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or just starting out, these rules can prevent headaches and improve your passengers’ experience.

Dash cameras are essential for rideshare drivers, boosting safety and guarding against false claims. With more time spent on the road, the risk of incidents rises. A dash camera provides peace of mind and protection against unexpected events. When I needed to upgrade my Tesla's dash camera, I discovered the ideal solution with DDPAI's Z60 after experiencing issues with my previous camera.

In my four years as a delivery driver, I've completed around 15,000 Amazon orders and 1,000 Uber Eats deliveries, often feeling detached from the neighborhoods I serve. Unlike traditional delivery drivers who develop connections with locals, gig workers tend to focus on speed rather than building relationships. This anonymity can sometimes lead to reckless driving and a lack of accountability.

As dawn breaks, rideshare drivers confront the day's uncertainties. Will it be busy? Will they face challenges like a queasy passenger or a flat tire? Despite these unknowns, the allure of independence and flexibility keeps them on the road. While risks exist, drivers embrace the adventure, finding purpose in navigating the unpredictability of their daily journeys.

Upon reaching Home Depot for a rideshare pickup, I found my passenger waiting with bags of mulch and gardening supplies that I couldn’t fit in my Tesla. When I calmly explained the situation, he grew frustrated and started yelling, creating a tense atmosphere. This incident underscored the difficulties of rideshare driving and the critical need for effective communication and prioritizing safety.

Every passenger has a story. One man shared his struggles with alcoholism, saying, “I’m a terrible husband and father.” After two years of sobriety, he relapsed, missing his daughter's recital and drinking for 48 hours. Despite his beautiful home and successful career, he faced deep internal battles. You never know what someone is going through, and a listening ear can make a real difference.

Have you faced terrible customer service? You're not alone! Many of us have endured frustrating experiences lately. Surprisingly, a recession might improve this. Economic downturns push companies to prioritize customer satisfaction over profit. As customers become more discerning, businesses recognize the importance of retaining loyal customers. Better service may be on the horizon!

After a pricey windshield replacement for my Tesla, I recognized the need for proactive coverage. I chose the Tesla Windshield Protection Plan at $12 a month, which offers unlimited repairs and one free annual replacement—perfect for gig workers! It reduces out-of-pocket costs and keeps insurance premiums down. For Tesla drivers, this plan is crucial for peace of mind and financial security!

I scheduled my appointment through insurance and paid in advance but faced numerous hurdles. Confusing charging requirements for my Tesla and poor communication left me feeling undervalued. After receiving broken replacement glass and no follow-up, I chose to take my business elsewhere. If you’re considering Safelite, tread carefully! Prioritize customer service and choose wisely.