If Uber and Lyft Are So BAD, Why Do We Keep Driving?

[Editor’s note: Quotes are lightly edited for clarity]

Ever wonder why Uber and Lyft drivers keep driving despite negative press, increasing driver complaints, and unpopular rate cuts? Drivers continue to drive (and sign up to drive) for nuanced reasons, beyond the typical “sign up, drive, and earn money.” While it can be as simple as earning more in a brief period of time, we investigated the real reasons why drivers continue to drive for Uber and Lyft despite their criticisms of how the companies treat drivers.

Here’s what readers are saying:

While most drivers agree that flexibility is one of the biggest reasons they drive, others use rideshare driving to promote their own work, like the reader below:

“What you said about connecting with the passengers, I totally agree. I'm a musician as a hobby and [at] times I would give away my CDs and discuss my music with them.”

Unfortunately, other readers have noted that the economy, far from being as robust as claimed, is the major reason why they continue to drive for Uber and Lyft:

“Recent college grad with B.S. degree. Haven't found a job in 5 months in Los Angeles! 8 years work experience as well. Have applied to over 70 places. Only viable option is Uber as of now.”

Chime in on the discussion here.

Lyft Launches New Driver Rewards Program

Lyft is launching a new driver rewards program called Lyft Rewards. This new rewards program is similar to Uber Pro, and will offer drivers rewards based on a tiered system. Lyft Rewards is a transparent program to move Lyft drivers to the busy times of the day when drivers are most in demand.  Are the rewards worth it for drivers to change their driving behavior? While the program is new, drivers aren’t so sure it will pan out in their favor.

Here’s what readers are saying:

Reader Gabe points out these new types of incentives from Lyft (and Uber) will never beat drivers using more lucrative strategies, like driving only during surge or only when it’s most convenient for them.

“You can make more money utilizing an effective strategy tailored to your lifestyle and market than these sad, manipulative jokes.”

Reader Kelly agrees that not only are these incentives probably not going to work out in drivers’ earnings favor, but they’re also confusing:

“How about guaranteed earnings, earning points on every ride, not just busy hour rides?”

Chime in on the discussion here.

Are Uber and Lyft Responsible for the Increase in Traffic Congestion?

A common refrain in many cities is that Uber and Lyft have added to traffic congestion. Many people see Uber/Lyft decals on cars, and assume what they’re seeing is more cars on the road. While it’s true that traffic congestion is a serious problem in major cities, can we really blame Uber and Lyft solely for additional traffic in urban areas? 

Here’s what readers are saying:

Overall, readers believe that poor infrastructure and management are to blame for the traffic and congestion found in many cities around the US. Reader Sajid points out deteriorating infrastructure has been a problem long before rideshare even existed, but politicians refused to properly manage the issue:

“I do see a few rideshare vehicles but they are not the problem. It's the crumbling infrastructure and poor management.

Nevertheless, the politicians are going to blame rideshare drivers.”

Chime in on the discussion here.