Uber vs. Lyft 2018

Uber vs. Lyft: Which Rideshare App Wins?

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Lyft vs. Uber: Which Rideshare App Wins?

Lyft and Uber are the two most prominent rideshare applications on the market, constantly battling each other to be number one. While we’ve compared the apps in the past, Lyft has launched a new version of their app which is sure to change the game. Find out which company’s app wins in the latest round of Lyft vs. Uber.

Lyft vs. Uber: How Each App Measures Up

To determine the winner in the Uber vs. Lyft battle, compare the two applications side-by-side to identify the pros and cons of each. Some of the main points you need to consider before choosing your go-to rideshare service include:

    • Availability
    • Safety
    • Usability
    • Ride choices

Every person will value these categories differently, but a close comparison is necessary to find the right one for your needs. Here are how the two apps measure up:

Availability

Before you can decide between the two services, you need to determine if they’re both actually available in your area. Currently, Uber operates in more than 600 cities around the world, and this number is rapidly expanding. Lyft, on the other hand, is now available in all 50 states plus the District of Columbia. Outside of the U.S., the rideshare service has recently expanded to Canada, and is eyeing Europe.

Even if both brands operate in your area, the size of the city or town you reside in can also affect the availability of vehicles. Many drivers aren’t going to work overnight in locations with fewer residents because it’s not a cost-effective choice. Instead, they’ll focus their energy on peak hours of the day when demand is higher. Unfortunately, the only way to determine if a ride is available is by requesting it through one of the apps.

Winner: When it comes to worldwide availability, Uber is still top dog. However, in the U.S., both Uber and Lyft are available almost everywhere. Both companies are still expanding, and they’re also targeting smaller locations simultaneously with metropolitan areas.

Safety

Safety is a top concern for most rideshare passengers, and in the battle of Uber vs. Lyft, security is a close race. Even though rideshare drivers operate as independent contractors, both companies utilize a detailed vetting process. Applicants are required to provide proof of licensing and insurance as well as access to their driving records. Drivers also undergo a background check. On top of these requirements, in many states, every vehicle has to undergo an inspection to ensure it meets the standards set by each company.

Along with the initial security steps, both Lyft and Uber have made updates to their apps to improve safety features of the app itself. Once you request a ride and it’s accepted, you’ll instantly have access to the driver’s name, photo, license plate number, and make and model of their vehicle. You’ll also have access to their real-time location, which means you don’t have to step outside until after they arrive.

Another valuable in-app quality is the ability to share your estimated arrival time (ETA), but each app approaches this feature differently. In the Lyft app, you can instantly share your ETA and route with anyone within your contact list. The Uber app offers both of these options as well, but you can also designate up to five emergency contacts to make the process simpler. Plus, the Uber allows you to contact emergency services directly through the application, and soon, the company will offer a collaboration with RapidSOS that will automatically send your exact location to the authorities.

While Lyft doesn’t offer the ability to contact emergency services from within the app, its newest update is built with the safety of both driver and passenger in mind. In highly congested areas, the app designates pickup and drop off sites on surrounding side streets when available. This feature is designed to reduce the risk of pedestrians and Lyft vehicles being hit by passing traffic. If an incident occurs, both companies have teams designated for urgent issues, and each one is available 24 hours a day.

Winner: It’s a tie! While Uber does have the upper hand with their built-in emergency service response, both companies have made a solid effort to keep their passengers safe.

Usability

Requesting a ride shouldn’t be a pain, which brings us to our next round in the Uber vs. Lyft battle—usability. Both rideshare companies make it fairly easy to secure transportation, requiring only a few taps on your screen.

Uber vs. Lyft Uber Home Screen

For Uber, when you open the app, you’ll see a map that highlights your current location and the drivers currently working in the area. In the menu at the top, you’ll enter your desired location in the field that reads, “Where to?”. At this point, you’ll choose your Uber service, verify your payment information, apply a promo code (if you have one), and request your ride.

The color scheme of the Uber application mostly involves tones, with gray, black, and white being prominent in every area. While this selection is chosen for its readability, the lack of actual colors prevents key features from popping out. However, the Uber app’s saving grace is its compatibility with voice-activated services, like VoiceOver and TalkBack, which increase its usability among visually impaired riders. Uber services are also accessible with wireless braille display options.

Uber vs. Lyft - Lyft Home Screen

Requesting a Lyft is now incredibly simple. After opening the app, you’ll first select the type of Lyft you want, confirm your current location on the in-app map, choose your destination, and click “Request Lyft.” If you have a promo code, you’ll need to enter it in the “Promos” section on the main menu before selecting a ride.

One of the best qualities of the Lyft app is its simple, clean design. The well-chosen pops of pink beautifully contrast with the white, black, and gray of the rest of the app. As a result, it achieves the aesthetic appeal that Uber reached for but missed. Unfortunately, Lyft’s current usability for visually impaired passengers is limited to those that are Aira customers.

The newest Lyft app update incorporates public transit routes and schedules to help you design your trip across multiple transportation options in combination with Lyft. While Uber allows you to request extra stops during your journey, it doesn’t currently offer features that make planning travel accommodation across numerous ride styles easier.

Winner: The winner in this round of the Lyft vs. Uber competition is…Lyft! While the app hasn’t caught up to Uber in its compatibility with accessibility applications, its clean, crisp design results in a more user-friendly application.

Ride Options

Both rideshare options also offer a variety of ride styles. Here’s a quick overview of each.

Lyft

  • Lyft Line: Shared rides with multiple passengers pickups and dropoffs along the route.
  • Lyft: Affordable, regular vehicles that accommodate up to four people.
  • Lyft Plus: Larger vehicles for when you have more than four people.
  • Lyft Premier: Higher end vehicle that fits up to four passengers.
  • Lyft Lux: The epitome of luxury with a top-ranked, high-end vehicle and driver.
  • Lyft Lux SUV: The SUV variation of Lux.

Uber

  • UberPool: Shared rides. Operates essentially as a carpool service with multiple passengers being picked up and dropped off along the same route.
  • UberX: The standard Uber service can accommodate up to four passengers.
  • UberXL: Larger vehicles that accommodate more than four people.
  • UberSELECT: Slightly higher end and newer vehicles. The middle ground between UberX and UberBLACK.
  • UberBLACK: Choose drivers with super high-end vehicles for up to four people.
  • UberSUV: UberBLACK with more seating.
  • UberLUX: Top-of-the-line vehicles with top-rated, professional drivers.

The biggest difference between the two apps, at least in terms of ride choices, is their offerings for individuals with disabilities. Uber offers two important options that are available directly from the app—UberWav and UberAssist. UberWav is designed for individuals who have non-foldable riding or walking apparatuses, like electric scooters, but this option has an additional $2 fee. UberAssist, on the other hand, specializes in passengers with folding wheelchairs and walkers, as the driver will assist with folding down and storing the device at pick-up. Unfortunately, neither of these variations are available in all locations as of yet, but they are quickly expanding their coverage areas.

Lyft Assist Setup

The Lyft app currently falls short as far as accessibility options. To find a vehicle that offers wheelchair capability, you have to go into “Settings”, click “Services”, and enable the “Access” button. When you request a ride, the app will look for available drivers in your area. However, the majority of locations don’t offer this feature, so instead of finding you a driver, you’ll receive a text message directing you to local vendors or organizations that offer wheelchair accessible rides. Many of those dispatch services require a full day’s notice as well as a post-registration waiting period.

Winner: Uber takes the win in this round! The company’s desire to extend their ride availability options is unmatched by Lyft.

Uber vs. Lyft: Which App Wins the Great Rideshare Debate?

It was a hard-fought battle, but in the Uber vs. Lyft competition, the result is…basically a tie.

While the new Lyft app takes the cake on usability, Uber’s special features evened the score.

But don’t worry: the debate is far from over! Both brands are constantly announcing new collaborations and improvements, so only time will tell which one is seen as the true winner. Until then, download both to be on the safe side. You can get discounted rides on either by clicking one of the buttons below.

 

Take A Lyft

 

How Does Uber Work - The Rider App

How Does Uber Work? Your Uber Rider App Guide

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How Does Uber Work? Your Comprehensive Rider Guide

How does Uber work? This is the question every first-time passenger needs answered. While seasoned riders can’t imagine a world without the service, approaching the process for the first time can be overwhelming. Fortunately, we’ve outlined everything you need to know about using Uber below.

How Does Uber Work?

Uber is a rideshare service, which means that the company more or less serves as the go-between for passengers and drivers. However, they aren’t completely hands-off. While Uber drivers are independent contractors, the company still runs a driving record and criminal background check to ensure the safety of their clients. Uber also sets standards for the types of vehicles used, so you’re sure to get where you’re going without any issues.

If you’ve never used Uber before, here are the steps you need to follow.

Set Up Your Uber Account

The absolute first thing you need to do is set up your account. Click HERE to sign up with Uber and get a discount on your first few rides. Then fill in your name, phone number, and email on the following screen. If the promo code box is empty, simply enter i9tz1 to get your discount. The amount of the discount is determined by your city.

Uber Promo Code Sign Up

Once you click sign up, Uber will prompt you to install the app. Upon completion, open the app and you’ll see the sign-in menu. At the bottom of the screen, there’s a spot to enter your phone number. Tap it and follow the prompts. The Uber app will send you a text to confirm your phone number, you’ll enter your password, and then you’re done!

You can also create your account directly on the Uber website if it’s more convenient.

Input Payment Information In Uber

Before you can request your first ride, you need to add your payment information. Open the main menu within your app by pressing the three lines in the upper left hand corner.

Uber - Access Main Menu

Then, tap the “Payment” option. Next, click “Add Payment.” At this point, you can enter your credit card or PayPal information in the boxes. Uber also integrates with Apple Pay You can also scan your credit card directly from your phone’s camera. The payment screen is also where you enter any promo codes you may receive in the future.

Uber - Add Payment Method

The company does offer cash payment options in certain cities, but you’ll still need a credit option on file. To pay with cash, you’ll swipe up from the bottom of the screen (inside the app) directly after requesting your ride. You’ll see a section for payment options, which you should click, and then choose “Cash.”

Schedule Your First Uber Ride

Now that you’ve set up all of the necessary information, you should get excited, because the answer to “How does Uber work?” will finally be revealed! First, you need to open the app and verify your pickup location. The app will automatically identify your current position using GPS, so you need to make sure that that’s where you want your driver to stop. If it’s not, you can move your pin to the desired spot.

Next, it’s time to choose your destination. Right below the pickup location, you’ll see the “Where to?” box, which you should tap. Now, you can start typing the address of where you want to go. Once you’ve become a regular customer, the app will suggest your most frequented locations as soon as you tap the box.

Uber - How to request a ride.

The final process of requesting your very first Uber ride is to choose your vehicle style. There are quite a few options (which we’ll cover later), but you only need to tap the one that meets your needs. Once you’ve made your selection, tap the “Request” button on the bottom of the page.

There, you’ve officially made your first request! Now, you’ll wait for a driver to accept it. Once they do, the Uber app will show you the location of your driver and their current ETA. It will alert you when they’re about a minute away from the pickup spot.

Identify Your Uber Ride and Driver

Unlike hailing a taxi, your Uber ride request is chosen by a specific driver. Once they accept the request, your app will provide you with all of your driver’s information. This data consists of a headshot, their name, and a breakdown of the vehicle, including license plate number as well as the make and model. The map on the Uber app also allows you to follow the driver’s course on their way to your location. Once they’ve arrived at the designated pickup spot, you verify the vehicle’s details with the information on your app.

Rate and Tip Your Uber Driver

Uber allows passengers to rate their drivers based on their ride experience, and recently, they also added the ability for riders to provide a tip directly through the app. At the end of your trip, a rating option will show up on your screen and you choose to give your driver between one and five stars. At this point, you’ll have the option to give a tip or you can do so later by accessing your ride history and selecting the specific trip. It’s important that you remember that the rating system works both ways—the driver also rates their passengers after each journey.

Choosing the Best Uber Ride Option for Your Needs

Before you can become an expert Uber passenger, you need to learn more about the various ride options. There are currently seven types of vehicles you can choose from when scheduling your ride. Each one varies by style, seating, and driver requirements.

Your Uber options are as follows:

  • UberPOOL: Typically the most cost-effective option, UberPOOL allows you to reduce your overall trip fare by sharing your journey with other people. Unlike splitting the fare with people you know, the other UberPOOL riders are likely to be strangers. Also, you are limited to 2 passengers on UberPool rides.
  • UberX: This is the most common style of Uber, which requires a vehicle in good working condition with four doors and five seatbelts. You can request an UberX for up to four people.
  • UberXL: UberXL is essentially UberX but with more room. This rideshare option allows you to book a vehicle when you have more than four passengers.
  • UberSUV: UberSUV is the higher-end version of UberXL. You’re likely to end up with higher end vehicle models, like an Escalade or a Navigator.
  • UberSELECT: UberSELECT is a more luxurious version of UberX, offering higher end brands like BMW and Cadillac. With this option, you can fit up to four riders.
  • UberBLACK: If you want to make an entrance, then UberBLACK is the right option for you. Following the rules of more traditional black car services, this option utilizes top of the line, new sedans with professional drivers.
  • UberLUX: UberLUX is the epitome of luxury, fitted with professional drivers and top-notch vehicle brands, like Mercedes and Porsche. It’s also the most expensive option.

The Uber App Features You Should Know About It

With so many rideshare options on the market (Uber, Lyft, Via), it’s confusing for new riders to determine what sets Uber apart. Here are few unique features their service offers.

Suggested Pickup Points

One of the most convenient aspects of the Uber app is its suggested pickup points, which recommends nearby locations known for their faster pickup times. This option typically only shows up in areas with lots of road congestion or limited parking. When you open your map to request a ride, look for green dots surrounding your location. If you want to reduce your wait time and there’s a dot that’s easy for you to access on foot, move your pin to that spot. In some cases, the app will even prompt you to these points when you begin inputting the pickup location.

Share Your Trip Status

The Uber app allows you to share your route with five friends or family members with a tap of your screen. This feature is designed to increase the safety of riders while offering you the convenience of an accurate ETA. When you share your status, the selected individuals will receive a notification that gives them access to your driver’s information as well as the ability to track your route in progress on the map.

To set up this feature, follow these steps:

  • Designate your contacts: Click “Settings” from the main menu, and then choose “Emergency Contacts” from the options. Tap “Add Contacts” and complete the information for up to five people.
  • Sending ride status: To actually send your status, you’ll need to swipe up on the screen right after you’ve requested a ride. A button will pop up that reads “Send Status”—tap it and the ride information will send directly to your chosen contacts.
  • Send ride statuses to additional people: You can also send the information to non-emergency contacts by adding them individually. The option will show up after you choose to send your ETA.

Accessibility Options

Uber also offers a host of accessibility features to make their service more user-friendly for individuals with disabilities. Visually impaired riders can utilize voice command applications, like VoiceOver (Apple) and TalkBack (Google), to request a ride because Uber has integrated those apps. You can also request wheelchair accessible vehicles by selecting “UberWav” as the ride type when requesting a ride. This option isn’t yet available in all areas, but the company is working to expand their fleet with drivers that offer a wider range of transportation options.

Split Rideshare Fare With Friends

Another perk of using Uber is the ability to split fares among multiple individuals. So, if you’re taking a ride home with your friends, you can pitch in and pay your share. In most markets, this option does charge every rider an additional 25 cent fee, but it makes group journeys incredibly convenient and affordable.

To split the payment, you need to first request a ride. Next, you’ll swipe up from the bottom of the app—just like when sharing your ETA—and tap your pre-set payment method option. You’ll then see an option that reads, “Split Fare.” After tapping it, you’ll then enter the names and numbers of everyone you’re sharing your ride with.

Uber split fare

How Does Uber Work? Reaching Uber Customer Service

While it may feel overwhelming requesting your first Uber ride, you’ll quickly feel at ease using the app.

After your first trip, taking an Uber will seem pretty uneventful. In the event something goes wrong and you need to contact customer service, you can do so through the app or by email. You can also contact Uber by phone in emergencies. Check out our page on Contacting Uber Support.

Uber is constantly adding new features to make ridesharing more useful and enjoyable, so check out the Uber Newsroom to learn about the newest updates as they’re announced.

If you’re ready to get started with Uber, simply click the button below. You should also check out our page on riding with Lyft.

Ride With Uber

 

Lyft driver with phone.

Lyft Nabs New Driver Support Head From Tesla

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Karim Bousta Joins Lyft As VP Of Driver Experience

Lyft has announced their latest hire in an ongoing effort to improve driver support. Karim Bousta, formerly of Tesla and Symantec, has joined Lyft to head up driver support.

Before coming to Lyft, Bousta was Tesla’s VP of Worldwide Service and Customer Experience. Prior to his stint at Tesla, he was the VP of Global Technical Services for Symantec.

To start with, Bousta will oversee the Express Drive program. He will also oversee the launch Lyft’s redesigned driver hubs and is looking to expand and improve Lyft’s rewards program for drivers.

Express Drive is Lyft’s rental program. The company partners with Hertz and Flexdrive to offer rental vehicles in 30 cities. Lyft drivers without cars utilize the program, as can drivers who want to keep the mileage down on their personal vehicle.

Karim Bousta - Lyft VP Of Driver Experience

Renting a car can often help full time drivers lower their maintenance costs. In fact, according to Lyft, if you drive rideshare a lot, renting your vehicle can save you up to $4500 a year in insurance and maintenance costs.

Lyft is planning to add Lyft Express drive to more markets. The company goal is to double the size of the Express Drive fleet by the end of 2018.

New Lyft Hubs

Lyft recently announced a $100 million investment in new driver support centers, also called Lyft Hubs. Bousta will be overseeing the launch of the new centers.

While at Tesla, Bousta helped launch the company’s innovative mobile and remote support programs. Hopefully, he can successfully adapt some of the support innovations from Tesla to Lyft’s new driver hubs.

Some centers will include access to low cost basic maintenance, car washes, tax advice, and communal areas where drivers can refresh or chat with other drivers.

The overall goal of Lyft’s driver support push is to help drivers earn more by offsetting some of the costs of driving. As Bousta noted, “the biggest burden of driving is the cost of vehicle maintenance, servicing, and insurance. My goal is to severely reduce or even eliminate that burden and put more money back in our drivers’ pockets.”

Bousta was brought on board by Lyft COO Jon McNeil, who also joined Lyft from Tesla earlier in 2018.

5 star rating

Tips For Getting 5 Star Ratings As An Uber Or Lyft Driver

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9 Tips For Getting 5 Stars Driving For Lyft Or Uber

Being an Uber driver certainly isn’t everyone’s dream job, but it helps pay the bills and allows some people to make a lot of extra cash on the side. It’s a convenient job that allows you to work as long as you want during whatever time of day works best.

The best part of all is that you don’t need any extensive on-the-job training; once you have your car (or a rental) and the Uber or Lyft driver app, you’re ready to go.

Avoid The Ratings Danger Zone

However, being an Uber or Lyft driver means that you have to watch your ratings. In order to avoid deactivation, you have to keep your rating above a 4.6 in most markets. Luckily, only 2-3 percent of drivers fall into the below 4.6 danger zone. While it should be quite reassuring to know that most drivers do not have to worry about their job being in danger, it’s still quite frightening to know that your job security can be threatened by a few angry or spiteful customers.

Maintaining a good rating isn’t difficult to do, but it never helps to go the extra mile and make sure that your customers have a good time. When a few upset customers can potentially have you fired from your job, it’s important to know exactly what to do to keep them happy. Here are some valuable tips to get the perfect rating:

Drive Places You’re Familiar With

By far, the most common complaint that drivers receive is that they are unfamiliar with the city or routes they are driving in. Drivers who are new to the area often take wrong turns or miss important exits, which delays the trip and makes the rider wait longer to get to their destination. The best way to avoid this is by driving around your house or the city you live in. Not only will you be more familiar with the area, you’ll be close to home whenever you’re ready to call it a night.

Respect Your Passengers

Treat others the same way you would want to be treated. Your passengers rely on your services just as much as you rely on their money, so both parties ought to treat each other with mutual respect. Make sure to greet them and at least attempt to make a bit of small talk. Nothing is worse than spending the entire ride in awkward silence. Even if the other party isn’t respectful, you should always treat them well.

Offer Water, Mints, Or Gum

It’s always nice to offer your guest a little something special even if they will most likely decline. Bottled water, mints, and gum are all cheap to purchase and the small gesture will make your riders feel more welcome and appreciated.

Have Chargers For Apple And Android Phones

Something that riders will appreciate even more is access to a phone charger. If they’ve spent their whole night out partying, their phones are likely drained. They will need their phones to still be alive when it comes time to giving you your rating, so charging their phones for them is never a bad idea.

5 Star Rating Lyft

Work Late At Night

Many Uber drivers work their shifts after they get done with a regular 9 to 5 job. That means they are working late hours during peak times. According to a graph released by Uber, the later you work, the better chances of getting a high rating are. Drivers who work between 9 p.m. and 8 a.m. have a much higher score than the weekend average, though the ratings do see a dip at 2 a.m. On the other hand, ratings often dip between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m., reaching their peak low point at 3 p.m.

Pick Up The Right Person

A report released from Uber found that if you pick up the wrong person, you have an 84 percent chance of getting a one star rating. You can always call your rider to tell them that you’ve arrived. Of course, there will be inevitable mix-ups during peak business hours, so it never hurts to double-check that the person entering your car is indeed the right person.

Give The Rider Some Authority

People naturally like it when they are in control and get to make decisions for themselves. Ask your passengers what radio stations they like and if they would prefer having the music turned up or down. Take them on their preferred route if they know a quicker way to their destination. Bring them to a drive-through if they request it. Adjust the air conditioning or heat if they are uncomfortable with the temperature. Your riders will certainly appreciate it if you help them out.

Keep Your Windows Rolled Up

It can be a rather unpleasant experience for someone riding with the windows down when still in the middle of a cold night. If your passengers roll their windows down, then you should let them. However, you should always keep your windows up, but offer to turn on the air conditioning if they find it to be too hot.

Don Beg

Lastly, you should never beg for a tip or a five-star rating. It will come across as desperate and needy. Your passenger already knows that you want a five-star rating, so telling them again won’t change their mind about it. If you do everything correctly, you should get a good rating regardless of whether you ask.

Be sure to check out our tips for new Uber and Lyft drivers and ways to drive Lyft and Uber profitably.

When your livelihood is up to the discretion of your passengers, you must do your best to make them happy. Enough spiteful one star ratings might soon mean that you must find a different line of work. Most people are courteous enough to give you a five-star rating if you do a good job, but it never helps to brush up on any possible mistakes that would lower your score.

Of course, there will always be the rare passengers who aren’t courteous and will give you a one-star rating for an absurd reason. There have been stories of Uber drivers getting one-star ratings because a drunk passenger wasn’t allowed to smoke or play with the radio. Some rude passengers will try to cram a large group into a small car and then give a low rating when they are denied such a request. Just remember that you too have the power of ratings. You can rate passengers as you see fit as a warning to other Uber drivers who may pick them up. You have just as much power in your hands, so you too should use it wisely.

Stressed Uber and Lyft driver

Rideshare And Delivery Tips: Ways to Reduce Stress and Anxiety

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Lower Your Stress While Driving Rideshare Or Delivery

While most people don’t think of driving for Uber, Postmates (or another on demand service) as stressful, it can be at certain times.

If you drive Uber or Lyft, heavy traffic or an obnoxious passenger can raise your stress levels.

Likewise, if you drive delivery for Doordash, Postmates or Caviar, you may feel some anxiety when a restaurant is late with your pickup. If the delivery location is far away and there’s traffic, that can just make it worse.

While most rides and deliveries are pretty routine and easy, you’ll occasionally have a bad experience. It may be mean passenger, or a customer who didn’t get their delivery fast enough.

I’ve heard from many drivers that this can really bring them down, and ruin their day. For some, the experience can stay with them the whole week.

When this happens, it’s important to keep things in perspective. At the end of the day, driving for places like Lyft, Instacart, or Postmates is a service job. While most people you’ll interact with will be nice and polite, a few won’t. Be assured, it’s them, not you.

The Effects Of Stress And Anxiety

High levels of stress and anxiety can poison thoughts and paralyze people from living the life they have dreamed of.  It is easy to feel overwhelmed when dealing with money, work, family, health and a myriad of other issues every day.  Working harder will not always relieve the constant nagging feeling of dread that encloses our thoughts.  Left untreated, stress and anxiety can worsen and cause serious health and mental issues.

Stressed Doordash driver

A Few Tips For Managing Your Stress

Stress and anxiety can be managed by taking action.  Small changes can produce huge effects if applied regularly.  Here’s 5 things you can do to immediately bring stress levels down to manageable levels.

Take A Breath And Count Backwards

If you run into one of the delivery or rideshare situations described above, do the following: Take a deep breath slowly, and then count slowly backwards from ten as you breath out. If you need, do it a second or third time.  It’s a simple technique, but you should feel slightly more relaxed after.

Release dopamine

Chemicals in the brain make people feel good. When you do certain activities, the brain is triggered to release these chemicals to give you a natural high. The single best thing to do when feeling stressed out is to get up and move around. If you’re driving (and not on a trip), pull over, stretch, and walk around for five or ten minutes.

When not driving, get physical and move enough that there is a rise in the heart rate. Dance, run, walk fast, play a sport, do anything that is active. Once the body is up and moving, dopamine is released. This chemical in the brain fights depression because it is designed to motivate by seeking pleasure from a reward.

This chemical does not just give a high like a narcotic would. It raises feelings of desire. It enhances feelings of needing a reward. When this happens, motivation to complete a task is higher and thoughts and feelings that any task is too hard is lowered.

List stressful things

To battle the beast of stress, it should be clearly defined. Sit in a quiet, calm place and write down everything that is causing the stress. Chances are the real issue will not come to the surface immediately. It is normal to bury a main cause of stress under more inconsequential issues because the real cause of stress is too hard to deal with. A full sink of dishes may be stressful, but that is not the reason for intense stress and anxiety.

List all things that are not going right, no matter how big or small. If there is nothing big on the list, dig deeper until you get to the root of your issues. If the problem is not clearly defined, there will be no resolution. This list will only provide temporary relief.  If the main issues are written down, solutions can be formed and this list can become a healthy habit to live by.

Prioritize and plan

With the list of issue and motivation high from the exercises, prioritize the list into things that can be tackled easy, and things that will take major work to fix. Develop a plan to tackle some easy items. This will inspire confidence and more motivation to work on the tougher issues. Take baby steps that are always moving in the direction of success.

Stress and anxiety are not relieved when the goal is met.  They are greatly reduced as soon as a solid plan to hit a goal is developed.      As long as there is hope that the issue is being resolved, stress does not consume thoughts.  Plan small, easy, attainable steps to keep anxious thoughts at bay.

Call a friend

Be proud of the successes gained so far and share accomplishments with a friend who is understanding. Telling a co-worker, the dishes are done, will not have the same effect as telling a best friend who understands that doing the dishes is almost a miracle after taking care of the kids and a million other chores on a list.

Do not fight the battle of stress and anxiety alone. Develop a circle of close friends to confide in. Share goals to get active and talk about which oils work the best. Share the things that stress you out and why they are so bothersome.  Give and get advice on plans of actions to overcome stress.  Reaching out and working as a team can mean the difference between success and failure.

Make these 5 activities habitual.  Mentally, feelings of wellbeing will be elevated and feelings of hopelessness will be stamped out.  Physically, this list will take a small step in living a healthier life which will reduce feelings of dread.  Emotionally, a connection with others going through the same experiences will make the journey more relaxing and fun.

Test Drive Tips For Uber And Lyft

How to Test Drive a Vehicle Before Buying

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How To Test Drive A Vehicle For Lyft Or Uber

You should test drive any vehicle you’re interested in buying. This is especially true if you’re going to be driving Lyft or Uber.

Only by using the car, albeit briefly, can you accurately judge whether it is appropriate for your needs and offers good value for money.

If you know how to make the most of the test drive, you can gather a lot of useful information regarding the quality and suitability of the vehicle. These five tips will enable you to make an informed and reasoned decision to get the best deal possible.

1. Starting The Engine

Before entering the vehicle, ensure the engine is cold. Some sellers will warm the engine up by running it for a while before you arrive to mask any ignition issues it may have, so you need to test it from cold. You can normally do this simply by resting your hand on the hood.

If it’s warm, arrange to come back at a different time and request that the seller doesn’t warm the engine up first. A reasonable and trustworthy seller will have no issue with the request if you explain your reasoning clearly.

Once you’re satisfied it’s starting from cold, turn the key and listen to the sound the engine makes. Any coughing, sputtering or other obviously unusual noises emanating from the engine should be investigated more closely.

2. Changing gears

Pay close attention to the biting point as you move off. If it is unusually high or low, there may be a current or impending issue with the clutch. As you move through the gears, feel for how the car reacts. The action should be smooth and easy. If the gear stick or clutch feels clunky or stiff, there may be cause for concern.

When planning your route, include roads that will provide plenty of opportunities to stop and start, as well as to move up through the range of gears. Search out traffic jams to give the clutch a thorough test and then find a long straight road to build up some speed.

3. Steering

While you’re testing out the higher gears, you can also check the tracking. When the road is clear and straight and you judge it safe to do so, briefly let go of the steering wheel to ensure the car doesn’t drift to either side.

On a winding stretch of road, assess the responsiveness of the steering. Power-assisted steering wheels are designed to react to the lightest of touches so you shouldn’t feel much, if any, resistance as you corner. You should also be aware of any significant vibrations or feedback in the steering wheel as it could be symptomatic of a larger issue.

4. Sound

Insist on having the radio off during the test drive. If the seller is keen to have it on, it’s possible they’re trying to mask strange sounds emanating from the vehicle they’re trying to sell. Eliminate any unnecessary sounds so that you can listen purely to the noise of the car. The sound of an unhealthy engine is often quite noticeable to experienced drivers, so trust your instincts.

As you stop at traffic lights, open your window so you can better gauge the sound of the engine when idle and as you pull away. Periods of transition, such as when you’re accelerating, slowing down, or changing gears is often when engine sounds are the most revealing. The negotiation of speed bumps and rough surfaces can also be a great time to pay particular attention to the noise the vehicle makes.

5. Braking

The performance of a vehicle’s brakes is integral to the safety of all road users. Every time you slow down or stop, judge the efficacy and responsiveness of the brakes. At an appropriate and safe juncture, inform the seller that you’re going to perform an emergency stop. The vehicle must come to a complete halt not only quickly but safely. Make sure it doesn’t swerve to either side under hard braking and that you have full control of the vehicle at all times. If you can find a steep hill, test the strength of the handbrake. It should be able to hold the weight of the vehicle at any gradient public roads have to offer.

Man starting Uber test drive

To find your perfect vehicle and get the best deal, you need to make efficient use of your test drive. Research the local area, plan your route and create a checklist of things you want to assess. By preparing your test drive in advance, you can arm yourself with a wealth of information from which to make an informed and intelligent decision regarding the vehicle you’re interested in buying.

Some Red Flags to Watch Out for When Buying a Used Car

One of the main benefits of purchasing a brand new car is that you know exactly what you are going to get. However, when it comes to purchasing a pre-owned or used vehicle you do not get to
enjoy this same luxury. As such, it is a good idea to remain vigilant and inquisitive when hunting for a used car. Though it can be tough to know every little detail about a car that you would like to buy, there are some potential red flags that you should watch out for, such as:

1. No (or Very Few) Pictures

Nowadays, most used car searches will begin on the internet. Prospective sellers will generally upload pictures, pricing, and a thorough description of the vehicle. If you find a listing that doesn’t have any pictures or has very few pictures, it may give you cause for concern. It is very easy to take pictures on a cellphone, so there is potentially some hidden reason why the seller has opted not to include images with their listing. Though a lack of pictures shouldn’t be a deal breaker, it is certainly to take into consideration moving forward.

2. Strange Pricing

The value of just about every vehicle on the road is pretty readily available to be looked up online nowadays. As such, if you come across a vehicle online that is priced either way too high or too low without any explanation you should consider it to be a red flag. If the pricing is too high, the seller may be trying to sell to an unwitting buyer – so you should tread carefully.

If the pricing is too low, you will need to ask the seller for more details on the vehicle to ascertain why the pricing is so low. If the reasoning is innocuous then don’t worry about it too much, but if there doesn’t seem to be a reason they may be trying to cover something up.

3. Lack of Records or Hidden Issues

Though it may be reasonable to expect a vehicle that has been on the road for a couple of decades to not come with its maintenance records, a car that is just a few years old should have all of the info you need. If the seller is unwilling to provide this information to you or is trying to hide potential issues, you should not be afraid to simply walk away from the deal.

As a driver, the last thing that you want to deal with is a faulty vehicle – especially one that you just paid thousands of dollars for. By taking your time with the search and watching out for these red flags, you will find yourself in a great pre-owned vehicle before long.

Uber driver side hustle

Want a Side Hustle and a Full-Time Job? Key Things to Think About First

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How To Fit Your Side Hustle With Your Day Job

Interest in side hustles like Uber or Postmates has been growing exponentially, and with it the number of men and women who hold both full-time jobs and perform tasks on the side. From driving for services like Lyft to delivering food to hungry neighbors to doing small jobs through Task Rabbit, the opportunities are almost endless.

If you have been tempted to take on a side hustle of your own, it is important to do some planning first. A side hustle is a great way to bring in some extra cash, but you do not want to make a mistake that could put your full-time job, and your main source of income, in jeopardy. Here are some key things to think about when fitting a side hustle into your full-time career.

Clear It With the Boss

The last thing you want is for your small-time side hustle to put your full-time income in jeopardy. It is important to run your proposed gig by your boss first, just to make sure there are no potential problems.

Assuming your side hustle will not interfere with your full-time responsibilities, your boss is unlikely to object. But if you work in an industry similar to your proposed side hustle, the firm you work for may not be cool with you taking on freelance work. But don’t worry, this is a pretty unlikely occurrence.

Plan for Taxes

One of the realities of life as a side hustler is taxes, and the tax bite can be quite high. While recent changes to the tax law have made being self-employed a little less expensive, you will still need to plan for those expenses.

There are a number of ways to pay the taxes you will owe, and the method you use will depend on how much you expect to make and the amount you expect to owe. If you have a full-time job and a side hustle, you can ask your employer to withhold additional taxes, simplifying the process and potentially reducing the amount you will owe later on.

woman doing taxes

You can also make estimated tax payments to the IRS, and your state if the state has an income tax. You can print these estimated tax payment vouchers off the IRS website or get them from your tax preparation agency.

Work the Side Hustle Into Your Schedule

The beauty of a side hustle is that you can work it into your own schedule. Unlike a part-time job, with its strict schedule, you can work your side hustle into your life any time you want.

Think about your daily schedule, look for gaps in your time and think about how to turn those extra minutes into cash. As you get better at your side hustle, you can maximize your earnings even more by making more efficient use of your time.

If you are looking for a way to bring in some extra cash and supplement your full-time income, a side hustle could be just the thing. More and more people, including career professionals, have been supplementing their incomes with freelance consulting work, home improvement projects and other tasks that let them use their skills. Once you have done your homework and completed the planning, you can join them and start pulling in some extra cash.

drive with Lyft

Drive With Lyft: How To Become A Lyft Driver – 2019 Requirements

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(Disclosure – We independently research our content to provide free advice for you. We may get compensation if you sign up with services, or purchase products through our affiliate links.)

Deciding to become a rideshare driver is only half of the battle. Next, you need to determine which company you want to drive for. One of the most popular brands is Lyft. As Uber’s top competitor, the company has expanded rapidly, adding millions of new riders.

Fortunately for you, this means they’re in constant need of drivers, which means it’s a great time to become a Lyft driver

Unless you’ve driven for other rideshare companies in the past, you’re probably wondering how to become a Lyft driver. While the Lyft application process is pretty straightforward, there are a few factors you need to consider before and after applying. If you’re ready to join Lyft, this guide will explain everything you need to know.

How to Know if Lyft Is the Right Match for You

Not everyone is cut out to be a Lyft driver. To ensure you don’t waste your time pursuing a career that you’ll end up hating, it’s important that you do your research. Before you take the next steps in the Lyft driver application process, take a closer look at what the job entails.

What Do Lyft Drivers Do?

Lyft drivers are the force behind the company’s rideshare services. As a driver, you’ll accept ride requests from Lyft passengers, pick them up, and then deliver them to their destination. For each journey, you’ll earn a specific rate.

Lyft Sign Up Bonus

Lyft is currently offering a $1000 earnings guarantee for new drivers nationwide. To sign up and get at least $1000 in guaranteed earnings in your first month, sign up using the button below.

Looking For The Best Rideshare Company To Sign Up With?

Sign up to drive with Lyft today and get a sign up bonus.

With Lyft, you can sign up to drive even if you don’t have a car!

Lyft Sign Up Bonus

 

How To Be A Lyft Driver

While there isn’t a set-in-stone test that you can take to determine if being a Lyft driver is right for you, there is a correlation between certain personality traits and success in the industry. The top drivers are equipped with these qualities:

  • Excellent Customer Service Skills: A commitment to the satisfaction of passengers is a vital trait for Lyft drivers. Ratings play a factor in your success with the company, and if you’re invested in giving your passengers a positive experience, you’re more likely to achieve consistent 5-star ratings.
  • Well-Organized: As a freelance worker, you’re responsible for paying your own income taxes and setting your wage goals. To ensure you’re setting yourself up for success, you need to keep track of your payouts as well as potential tax deductions, such as mileage and vehicle maintenance. For these tasks, you need to be incredibly organized and keep accurate records on a regular basis. To help in this area, many drivers download a mileage tracker.
  • Friendly Demeanor: Friendliness is another important quality of being a Lyft driver. Even when riders don’t want to have a conversation on their journey, a simple greeting at the beginning and the end of the ride will ensure they enjoy their time in your vehicle.
  • Comfort Behind the Wheel: You also need to be comfortable driving for hours on end. Full-time Lyft drivers are likely to spend eight to ten hours in the driver’s seat every day, while part-time drivers are likely to hit at least 10 hours a week. If you’re uncomfortable driving or can’t sit for long periods of time, then becoming a Lyft driver may not be the best choice for you.
  • Ability to Multitask: As a Lyft driver, you’ll also need to multitask. While you’re working, you’ll need to navigate to your destination based on the directions given in the app, carefully watch the road, and communicate with your rider all at once. Being able to accomplish all three tasks at the same time is an absolute necessity for rideshare drivers.
  • Self-Motivated: As an independent contractor, you also need to be self-motivated. Since you don’t have a boss or schedule to follow, you’re the only one responsible for your financial survival. This means that you should have the motivation to not only work hard, but push yourself to meet your goals.

While you don’t necessarily need to encompass all of these traits, they can be used as an identifier of your future success as a driver. If you possess these qualities, it increases the likelihood that you’ll not only enjoy your job, but that you’ll also be good at it.

Becoming A Lyft Driver: Earnings of Lyft Drivers

Lyft calculates each driver’s earnings using a three-part process. The pricing equation is composed of a base fare, a per-mile fee, and a per-minute earning. Each of these rates is location-specific, so what a Lyft driver earns in Seattle is vastly different than what one would earn in St. Louis or Los Angeles.

When there’s a high number of Lyft ride requests, the company activates a service known as “Prime Time.” During this period, drivers receive an increased rate for each ride they accept in the area. The system is designed so that the standard fare is multiplied by a particular percentage, which is determined by the level of rider demand. The current prime rate will be displayed on the app at the time of ride acceptance.

On top of Prime Time increases, Lyft offers a reward program for highly motivated drivers. The Power Driver Bonus sets weekly requirements, such as a minimum number of rides and a high acceptance rate, and each week that you meet the criteria, you get a bonus. The system usually has three or four tiers, so you can actually earn up to an additional $50 – $400 per week. Lyft Power Driver Bonus amounts and requirements differ from city to city.

Lyft Power Drive Bonus Chart

As a Lyft driver, every time you accept a ride request, there’s a chance that the passenger will cancel it. In this situation, you won’t completely lose the entire value of the potential fare. As long as it’s been at least two minutes since you accepted the trip, you’ll receive a cancellation fee.

Lyft drivers are paid on a weekly basis. The company applies payouts on Tuesday mornings. Depending on your bank provider, the money is deposited into your account instantly, within a few hours, or within a couple of days. With most banks, the money is in your account within 24 hours. Lyft also offers an instant pay option, Express Pay, which allows immediate access to your earnings.

Become A Lyft Driver: Lyft’s Driver Requirements

Having the desire to become a Lyft driver doesn’t ensure that you meet the company’s requirements. To qualify as a Lyft driver, you need to meet the following criteria:

  • Age: All Lyft drivers need to be at least 21 years old.
  • License: You also need to have had your driver’s license for at least a year before you apply to become a driver.
  • Good Driving History: You need a clean driving history. Your record can’t display any license suspensions within the last three years, and no serious drug- or alcohol-related charges within the last seven years. As far as speeding tickets, there need to be fewer than three violations on your record within the last three years.
  • Acceptable Criminal History: Lyft requires that drivers have a clean criminal history. This means that your background check needs to be free of all violent and sexual crimes.

Lyft also places restrictions on the vehicles that can be used for their rideshare services. These qualifications include:

  • Insurance: All vehicles must be fully insured to be approved, and you also need to be insured on the policy.
  • Registration: Your vehicle’s plates also need to be up-to-date.
  • Seating: Lyft’s minimum seating requirements are five (including the driver) and go up to eight available seats (seven passengers).
  • Doors: All vehicles need at least four doors to provide driver and passenger convenience.
  • Age: Unlike Uber, the age restrictions of Lyft-associated vehicles vary by location. During the application process, the system will automatically provide the eligibility requirements for your area.

Check out our page on Lyft vehicle requirements for more information and to see if your vehicle qualifies for Lyft XL (larger vehicles) or Lyft Lux (high end vehicles). If you don’t have a vehicle, you can still Drive With Lyft by renting a vehicle through Lyft Express Drive.

To pass Lyft’s application process, you need to meet the company’s minimum requirements as well as the rules set in place by your local municipality.

Lyft Driver Alternatives

The main alternative to Lyft is Uber. Fortunately, the Lyft vs. Uber battle is one that benefits drivers. Since drivers at both companies are independent contractors, they can technically drive for both services at the same time. This approach widens the available market in the area because you’ll have access to both Lyft and Uber riders. You could boost your earnings significantly with this approach.

If you don’t meet the Lyft requirements as a result of age or vehicle style, there are other alternatives. Uber’s eligibility criteria for rideshare drivers is similar, but it still makes sense to apply for that service if you don’t get accepted by Lyft

Also, delivery services, like Uber Eats, Doordash, and Postmates, have fewer driver and vehicle restrictions.

Become A Lyft Driver: Benefits

Choosing to join the Lyft fleet comes with multiple benefits. Some of the advantages of working with Lyft include:

Be Your Own Boss

The biggest appeal of rideshare companies, like Lyft, is that drivers operate as independent contractors. Being self-employed provides a significant amount of freedom regarding the schedule you work. As your own boss, you choose when and where you want to operate instead of relying on a manager to dictate your daily tasks.

Virtually Unlimited Earning Potential

One of the top reasons people decide to become a part- or full-time rideshare driver is the potential earnings. While true success won’t happen overnight, a quality driver will quickly learn the ropes and determine the most efficient operating times in their area. As a result, you’re provided with an opportunity to make a significant amount of money every week.

Company Perks

As a Lyft partner, you’ll get many perks in the form of entertainment and lifestyle discounts. Most impressively, the company provides their drivers with access to a variety of educational resources, like financial aid services. You can also get reduced rates on financial services and professional tax guidance, and the Lyft Driver’s Reward Program aids drivers with fuel costs and vehicle maintenance.

How to Be a Lyft Driver

If Lyft still sounds like the rideshare company for you, it’s time to take on the Lyft driver application. You can start your application with a Lyft promo code worth up to $1000 by clicking HERE. Then follow the instructions below to complete your Lyft application and get on the road.

1. Create Your Account

To create an account, you’ll enter your phone number.

Lyft Application - Enter Phone Number

2. Enter Your Information And Lyft Driver Promo Code

Then, enter your name, email, driving city and your promo code. Ours is MOVER if you’d like to use it. In order to be eligible for a Lyft sign up bonus of up to $1000, you must enter a code when you start your application. Lyft does not allow you to add a promo code later.

Enter Lyft Driver Promo Code

3. Choose: Drive Your Car Or Rent A Vehicle

The next step is to choose whether you want to Drive With Lyft using your own car, or rent a vehicle through Lyft Express Drive.

Lyft Driver Promo Code - Your Vehicle Or Express Drive

4. Provide Vehicle Information

If you’re going to be driving your own car, the Lyft application will prompt you to provide your vehicle’s details. This step includes the year, make, model, the number of doors, color, and number ofseatbelts. As long as the information provided meets their requirements, you’ll move onto the next step in the Lyft driver application process.

Lyft Application - Add Vehicle

5. Enter Your Personal Information

Once the company knows you have a qualifying vehicle, they want to know more about you. For this step, you’ll need to provide all of your personal information, including your legal name, date of birth, driver’s license number, and social security number (so they can run a background check).

Lyft Application - Driver Info

6. Background Check

Next up, you’ll need to authorize a local and national background check. The company provides a full disclosure so that you’ll know exactly how they’re using the information. If you hit “Acknowledge,” they’ll use the information from the previous step to access your DMV records and perform a complete background check.

Lyft Application - Federal Background Check

7. Arrange a Vehicle Inspection

Unlike Uber, Lyft has you sign up for a vehicle inspection (if your market requires it) during the application process. This approach helps you save time because you can hit the road as soon as your application is approved. You are not required to go to to Lyft’s suggested inspection location. You can have your inspection performed by any licensed mechanic.

Lyft Application - Vehicle Inspection Location

8. Upload Your Documents

The final step is to upload some documents. Document requirements vary by location, but you’ll at least need a copy of your driver’s license and insurance. Most markets also require you to upload a valid registration. See our Lyft vehicle requirements page for the specific document requirements for your market. After uploading your documents, you just have to wait for approval. This can take anywhere from one day to a few weeks. Most drivers are approved in five to ten days.

Lyft Application - Upload Documents

 

9. Hit the Road

Once you receive your approval email from Lyft, you can officially hit the road and make some money. They’ll provide you with full details on how to accept your first ride as well as how to navigate the app successfully.

How to Be a Lyft Driver – Ace Your Application

Tackling the Lyft application won’t take you very long, but there are ways to ensure that you put your best face forward. Here are a few tips to ace your Lyft application:

Be Prepared

You’ll need to provide the company with your personal information as well as documentation, so organize all of your paperwork ahead of time. This will reduce the time needed to apply as well as ensure that you have everything you need.

Be Honest

The company verifies all of the information you provide with a background check and vehicle inspections, so don’t try to cheat the system. Doing so will definitely earn your Lyft application a denial, and it could also inhibit your ability to work with the company in the future.

Act Quickly

The sooner you schedule your vehicle inspection, the faster you’ll be approved. Lyft utilizes the inspection process to ensure that your vehicle meets all of their requirements, including insurance. As a result, be sure to take proof of licensing, insurance, and registration to your appointment.

Reaching Your Full Earning Potential As a Lyft Driver

While you can’t control the market and ride demand in your area, you can set yourself up for success. Taking the initiative and educating yourself on the industry will provide you with the upper hand. Here are a few tips for reaching your full potential as a Lyft driver:

Put in the Effort With Riders

Rideshare driving is a very customer-centric job, so you need to focus on making your customers happy. Along with general niceties, take an interest in their lives and also know when they’re not interested in carrying on a conversation. You can also consider offering refreshments, like water, to your riders. Simply making the effort will take you far in this industry.

Work to Achieve and Maintain a High Rating

You should also strive the earn and maintain the highest Lyft driver rating possible. Higher ratings make you eligible for the higher tiers within Lyft’s rideshare service offerings, which results in increased fares. Communicating with riders and practicing excellent customer service will help you achieve this goal.

Use Your Resources

There are so many resources available to Lyft drivers, from how-to guides to tips and tricks. At Rideshare Central, our ultimate goal is to help rideshare drivers achieve ultimate profitability. Here are a few helpful guides to support you along your journey:

By utilizing these and other resources, you can educate yourself on how to become the best entrepreneur, thus increasing your potential earnings. If you’re ready to get started with Lyft, click the button below.

Looking For The Best Rideshare Company To Sign Up With?

Sign up to drive with Lyft today and get a sign up bonus.

With Lyft, you can sign up to drive even if you don’t have a car!

Lyft Sign Up Bonus