A Guide to Uber Etiquette
Uber has genuinely changed the way we travel on a day-to-day basis. Rushing to a meeting? Catching a flight? Or perhaps just going out on the town without having to stay sober enough to drive home. Rideshare apps like Uber have made it possible for their users to get where they need to go quickly.
Yet, jumping into a stranger’s car means there are certain social norms to keep in mind. That’s where etiquette comes in. Understanding what riders and drivers should do in an Uber environment can help make the ride smooth and enjoyable—for everyone.
Uber Do’s
- Be ready: Time is valuable. When you request a ride, make sure you’re ready to go when the driver pulls up to pick you up. They may be managing several rides at one time, and delays can impact their earnings and other riders’ plans. Being ready demonstrates respect for their time and helps keep everything running smoothly.
- Say hello: A quick “hi” to the driver as you enter the car creates a friendly environment. You don’t have to start a long, philosophical talk, but a little courtesy goes a long way. Drivers appreciate when passengers acknowledge them and treat them like real people instead of just a part of a service.
- Keep the car clean: How messy would an Uber car be if every passenger left trash in the backseat? Ick. It’s important to treat the car like it’s your own. Take your items with you when you exit, throw away trash, and try to avoid eating or drinking in your Uber. Water is the exception.
Uber Don’ts
- Don’t be rude: Treating your Uber driver poorly can make the ride awkward. Complaining, misbehaving, or making rude remarks can spoil the experience and get you flagged or banned from the app. Remember that Uber drivers offer a service, and a little kindness can go a long way in making everyone comfortable.
- Don’t pressure the driver to do anything illegal: Asking your driver to speed, run a red light, or drop you off in a restricted area is asking them to break the law. Never push your driver to do something against traffic laws. If you’re using Uber abroad, don’t assume you know local rules of the road. Your Uber driver is responsible for your safety, and you don’t want them to risk a ticket or accident for an offhand request on your part.
- Don’t slam the door: If you’re in a rush or not thinking, closing the door too hard is usually an accident. Unintentionally or not, when passengers repeatedly slam an Uber driver’s car door, it can cause damage over time.
Surprising Uber Etiquette Tips
While the basics of Uber etiquette might seem straightforward, some unexpected guidelines might not be universally considered:
- Don’t sit in the front seat without asking: It’s usually best to sit in the back unless you’re traveling with a big group. Drivers often appreciate their personal space, especially since the pandemic.
- Do tell your driver if something is wrong: Drivers are usually happy to make minor adjustments for the comfort of their passengers, but they can’t do that unless they have all the information.
- Do tip and rate your driver: Uber ratings are essential for drivers. Leave a fair review based on your ride. If your driver was safe, on time, and friendly, show your appreciation with a good rating and tip.
FAQ’s
It’s not mandatory, but tipping your Uber driver is an excellent way to show appreciation for their service. If your driver went the extra mile to make your ride enjoyable, a tip is a great way to say thanks. You can easily add a tip to the app, so acknowledging great service is super convenient.
Don’t hesitate to say something if anything seems off; whether it be the route, the driver’s attitude, or the car itself. Politely asking questions or sharing concerns can help sort out minor issues before they escalate into big problems.
If you find yourself in an accident, check your safety first and the check if the driver is ok. Uber usually has insurance covering passengers in these situations, but if you’re unsure about your rights, contacting an Uber accident lawyer can be helpful. They know the ins and outs of these types of cases and can guide you.
Conclusion
Uber etiquette is important for a comfortable ride for both passengers and drivers. A bit of respect, kindness, and clear communication can enhance a ride exponentially. For passengers using Uber both all the time or just occasionally, keeping these easy tips in mind will help you stay in good graces with the service. Happy travels!
