Scipper

(I originally posted this on medium.com so if there are any broken links or missing information this article can also be found there.)

I am an over 6-year driver for Uber. https://b0h2.short.gy/6 years with Uber picture In 2015 there were a lot of bad things happening in my life. I took a good hard look at all of those things that were happening to me, and I decided that they were happening to me because I in one way or another invited them all into my life. These things were happening to me because of the choices I made. There were a lot of things that happened to me because I did not know (Child Support) for example. So when my home got foreclosed on in 2015. I just decided to rebuild my life. I started then, and I told no one about my intentions very important). I was working in a call center in Clearwater, FL. when I started driving rideshare, I did some math and figured that it was going to be very close, but I could do it on the salary from Uber alone. I did that math based on the 68 percent that Uber paid to the drivers out of what the rider paid AT THAT TIME in 2018. I did that same math in July 2022 and that percentage has dropped down to 45 percent. Now I check the output from an Uber trip and they have completely removed the amount that the rider pays so that can no longer be calculated. Uber is a 130 Billion dollar company now. They got that way from a VERY good idea. Uber will continue to grow financially and very soon drivers will not be able to sign up for Uber to drive anymore. A passenger that I picked up once on St. Pete Beach told me that Uber is now charging USD 250.00 to drivers to sign up to drive for Uber. I searched (Uber and then Google I love the information age) and searched and could not find any evidence of that, so I do not know that is the case for certain. All I know is that when I signed up to drive for them in 2018, there was no fee at that time. So now since 04/09/2024, I have been unable to drive for Uber because of an even louder noise coming from the exhaust area of Ruby/My car. Here is a picture that I took yesterday of the odometer in my car. https://b0h2.short.gy/dCIAif That is the car I have always used to drive for Uber.  www.ridesharedriver.blog has a maintenance log on it, containing everything I have ever done to that car since I have owned it. Every Oil change (every 2 weeks) tomorrow is the first Friday that I am going to miss an Oil Change Friday in the past 6 years. I did miss an OCF when Hurricane Ian made landfall in FL in September of 2022 because I had not driven for like a week, so I just did it on the following Saturday (The next day). Even though I haven’t really driven for Uber since 04/09/2024 (I think that is the day seems like a long time) I still do all of this each and every day.

(500 Milligrams) of Vitamin C (since about 04/01/2020 (the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in America)
1 X Metacaps (Metamucil Fiber capsules) (since ~03–20–2021)
~5000 IU of vitamin D (since about 04/01/2020 (the beginning of the Covid19 pandemic in America)
1 x Fish Oil triple strength from Amazon (since ~03–20–2021)
1 tablespoon of high-grade Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Amazon (since ~08/01/2021)
250 MG tablet of Magnesium that I got from Amazon which stopped me from being “tachycardic” in only 2 days. This was Magnesium Oxide and now this is Magnesium citrate which I learned is better from listening to Dr. Mark Hyman, I also do this each and every day. Things I do every day because I do not have health insurance (updated 12/2023)I exercise 1 x for 20 minutes in the morning and then 1 X for 30 minutes in the afternoon each day on the Peloton Bike Plus. I saved up my stimulus checks and purchased a Peloton in March of 2021 and it got delivered to me on 05/13/2021 (I ride it for 20 minutes in the morning and 30 minutes in the afternoon). Since I took delivery of it on 05/13/2021
I also do not eat before 11 AM (since ~03–20–2021)
I drink water only and fast for 3 days twice a year. (Every February and August) (Since 2016)
I have an R.O. Chiller and filter system which I drink from mostly.

I am able to do all of this because of the lifestyle I live. I do not have any Physical friends or girlfriends (on purpose) So that alone frees up a lot of time for me as it is. That lifestyle is a double-edged sword, that lifestyle allows me to pay attention to only what really matters (me and my mother) but it also has downsides too. I am only able to learn new things from reading and watching YouTube video’s sometimes I learn things from the Passengers in my car. But other than that, there really is no place else for me to learn from and that is a HUGE problem for me. There are a lot of places to learn from online and I am very grateful for that. If it weren’t for places like YouTube and Audible oh I also love and learn a lot from podcasts too. I have spent a long time in the technical field and I have amassed a lot of technical certifications over the years several Microsoft certificates and I got a CCNP (routing and switching) some Comp TIA certifications and many others. But I have let them all expire. Now the only certification that I hold is a part 107 FAA cert to fly drones and get paid for. I have never gotten paid for flying my drone, but I try anyway. I have a website that hosts about 15% of the pictures that I have taken of various structures over the years. I am a photographer now and I take pictures and videos of things and edit them a little bit (I learned a lot of this while driving for Uber) and then upload them when I am done with them or store them. The drone I have now and have used for the past few years is a DJI mini 2 drone. I like them because I know I am going to lose them, so that is the cheapest drone I could find on Amazon and it is a lot more quiet than any other drone that I have had. I learned on a Phantom 4 pro and that was very loud. Also, anyone can purchase and fly them without a license because they’re under 250 grams. I sat/took and passed the Part 107 test in 4/2017 at SRQ airport and I just renew it every 2 years with the recurrent test (Which reminds me, I need to renew that certification ASAP because it is expiring on 04/27/2024) It cost nothing which is very cool because if there was a cost for it, it would be out of reach right now. I think that when I sat the test in 2017 there was a cost of $150.00 for it. So then in 2022, I needed it again and I sent an email to the place I used for training before, and they told me also about the part 107 recurrent test and that I qualified for it because I had already sat and passed the test once already. What the part 107 test and certification does is give a person the ability to accept money for any drone work that they complete. There is a question on the test that asks about that, even if a drone pilot is given food for their drone work it is prohibited if that pilot does not have a part 107 certification. I was like dang, I guess the FAA really wants drone pilots to be certified lol. So I left corporate America because of all the B.S. that comes along with it. Job interviews (Which I despise) and office politics are also bad, my boss was always an idiot (except for one) but they can never know that you think that about them. Then there are workers which will act like your friend but will not hesitate to throw you under the bus to save their own skin in a moment. Even your boss has a boss. That boss tells your boss to get something done and your boss has to actually have his or her employees actually do the work. All your boss knows is that it needs to get done, the people who actually are told to do it, think that they are getting singled out when in reality they are not at all, something just needs to be done is all. The actual corporate world is horrible but it is constant and stable. What I have learned from Uber driving is that an employee actually gets benefits and they are also getting paid when they are not working all they have to do to get paid is show up, sometimes that doesn’t even happen. With Uber driving there is no pay happening at all unless you are driving and even that is very risky. So when you are driving to pick up a passenger, there is no pay happening until you pick up that passenger. Then once you pick up that passenger the Uber insurance policy takes over completely. Which turns off your personal auto insurance completely. The Uber insurance policy carries no Uninsured Motorist coverage so the Uber driver can die or be badly injured and big bad 130 Billion dollar Uber doesn’t care at all about the driver. Here is an accident that I was involved in on 03/25/2024 which I have not gotten my deductible back yet. I had $50K uninsured motorists coverage on my personal policy from Progressive which was denied to me. They also hold and provide in Florida the policy for Uber and I was advised but did not know this. My personal policy coverage stops when an Uber passenger gets in my car, and the Uber insurance policy has no Under-Insured Motorist coverage at all (Which is a huge problem) AND their deductible is now $2500.00 (This was the reason I stayed away from Lyft driving) what Uber driver has that kind of money just laying around? So Progressive repaired my car and gave me a rental car for a month under my personal policy, but denied my claim for my own Uninsured Motorist coverage here is the redacted police report from the Tampa Police Department that responded. The lady who struck me had a really dark window tint on her car/windshield and no valid proof of insurance (Both of which I have received citations for) I don’t care that she did not get in trouble for the accident, she didn’t even get a careless driving citation for causing this accident, she was allowed to do as she pleased and not get in trouble which is fine. But she still has not paid me my 1000.00 deductible back yet and it has been over a year. I could really use that 1000.00 about now too. But whatever. I have a few ways to donate to me that may keep our heads above water they can be located at all of my websites, I am pretty sure anyway. There are also ways to support me at www.rideshareseansupport.com I have learned over the years how to get by for a with a little bit. All I really have ever cared about is paying those bills when they are due. I have a total of 7 Maxed credit cards and I have been able to continue to pay them, this is the first month that has gone by in over 6 years when I have been unable to pay them. So I will publish this on Medium and see what happens I guess. I have been posting my resume on Indeed and Career Builder and other places reluctantly though, I have gotten a couple of “video” interviews and both times they were zoom meetings with a bunch of other job candidates and both times the same person “Crystel Roberts” was leading the pack. I thought this was an actual Job interview, I am not cattle lol. I just need a job this is a small incling of what I am about to enter into in Corporate America. So please help me to be able to afford to continue writing and driving for Uber because I do not want to work in Corporate America but I am the king of doing things that I do not want to do

Completing two long trips for Uber today took me from Sarasota-Bradenton Airport (SRQ) to my favorite spot, Tampa International Airport (TPA). The pay barely reached $65—a stark reminder of the challenges faced by Uber drivers.

Since joining Uber in 2018, I’ve witnessed a steady decline in driver pay, with the company seemingly slashing wages at every turn. It’s a harsh reality that drivers like me have come to accept, but it’s disheartening to see the lack of compassion from a company that relies so heavily on its workforce.

Driving for Uber comes with its own set of risks, yet the compensation fails to reflect the dangers involved. And when issues arise in Uber’s system, such as incorrect toll reimbursements, drivers are left to bear the burden without any form of refund or compensation.

Despite my repeated attempts to address the toll reimbursement discrepancy with Uber, the problem persists. Even as toll rates increase, Uber continues to reimburse at outdated amounts, seemingly turning a blind eye to the financial impact on its drivers.

It’s frustrating to see a company of Uber’s size neglecting the well-being of its workforce in pursuit of profit. As Uber grows, it seems to forget the individuals who contribute to its success, leaving drivers feeling undervalued and exploited.

In the end, it’s a stark reminder of the power dynamics at play in the corporate world. As companies like Uber expand, they often prioritize profits over people, leaving smaller players in the dust. But as drivers, we continue to push for fair treatment and compensation, hoping for change in an industry that seems content with exploitation.

As a rideshare driver navigating the bustling streets of Manatee County, Sundays have proven to be a lucrative day for me. While Saturday nights used to dominate when I used to drive in the Pinellas Market at night, Sunday daylight hours have emerged as a hidden gem for drivers in my market. In this blog post, I’ll take you through my Sunday routine, sharing insights into the challenges and rewards of being an Uber driver.

The Sunday Adventure Begins: This Sunday, I have a scheduled trip for a noon pickup to transport a rider to Tampa International Airport (TPA) via I275. TPA holds a special place in my heart, being my favorite airport among others SRQ and PIE. The journey is more than just a drive; it’s an opportunity to explore the diverse routes of Pinellas and Manatee County, aiming to hit the $100.00 mark for the day.

The Economics of Rideshare Driving: The rideshare industry, dominated by giants like Uber, has always been a double-edged sword for drivers. While the flexibility of choosing when to work appeals to many, the financial rewards often fall short. It’s astounding that Uber/Raiser, LLC. pays drivers so little, considering the significant risks drivers take each time they hit the road.

The Uber Attraction: Despite the meager pay and associated risks, Uber remains an attractive platform for drivers. The allure lies in the ability to work on your terms, making it an ideal gig for those who need to drive on their schedules. This flexibility has fueled the abundance of Uber drivers, making them readily available for passengers at any time.

The Never-Ending Cycle: One might wonder why drivers continue to join Uber, knowing the challenges they’ll face. The answer is simple: fresh meat. Uber’s constant influx of new drivers allows them to perpetuate the cycle of low wages. As they attract more drivers, they feel empowered to decrease pay rates, further exploiting the eager individuals looking to make a quick buck.

Risk and Neglect: The risks involved in rideshare driving go beyond the road. Uber’s insurance policies reveal a stark reality. With a $2500.00 deductible for accidents, drivers are left in a vulnerable position, especially considering the minimal pay. The lack of underinsured motorist coverage also raises questions about Uber’s priorities, seemingly valuing passengers over their drivers.

The Autonomous Shift: In 2024, the looming threat of autonomous vehicles is palpable. Uber appears to view drivers as a temporary expense, with plans to replace them entirely. As we navigate the present, drivers are the backbone of Uber’s success, yet the company seems set on minimizing its role in the near future.

Conclusion: Being an Uber driver on a Sunday is a unique experience, filled with challenges and opportunities. While the financial aspects may be discouraging, the flexibility keeps drivers on the road. As we continue to witness the evolution of the rideshare industry, drivers must stay informed and navigate the roads with a clear understanding of the landscape they operate within.

Hey, fellow rideshare enthusiasts and Uber drivers! Today marked another #OilChangeFriday in my routine, and I wanted to share a glimpse into my day as I prioritize the well-being of my trusty companion, Ruby.

As a rideshare driver, it’s crucial to keep our vehicles in top-notch condition to ensure smooth rides and reliable service. My day always kicks off with an oil change – a ritual that sets the tone for a successful day on the road.

Maintaining Ruby is a top priority for me because I rely on her to start without a hitch every time I push that Uber button. To keep things organized, I diligently log all maintenance activities on this website.

One maintenance practice I’ve adopted, thanks to the insights of the rideshare guy and expert, Harry Campbell, is changing both air filters every June and December. The Perolator in-cabin air filter, recommended by Harry, may come at a higher price, but I’ve found it to be worth the investment for a cleaner and more comfortable ride.

During my visits to Valvoline Quick Oil Change, I’ve noticed that they always put the engine air filter on the windshield for drivers to see. This visual cue has become my gauge, signaling when it’s time for a change. I’ve observed over the years that replacing them every 6 months is the sweet spot – around the 5-month mark, they start showing signs of wear and tear.

After wrapping up my #OilChangeFriday routine, it’s time to hit the road for a day of Uber driving. The satisfaction of knowing that Ruby is in peak condition adds an extra layer of confidence to my rides, making each trip a positive experience for both myself and my passengers.

So here’s to staying on top of maintenance, embracing #OilChangeFriday, and keeping our Uber journeys smooth and trouble-free. If you’re a rideshare driver like me, share your maintenance tips in the comments below – let’s keep our rides reliable and our engines purring! 🚗💨 #RideshareLife #UberDriver #CarMaintenance #OilChangeTips

As a rideshare driver, my days are filled with scheduled trips, countless conversations, and the hum of Ruby, my trusty car, ferrying passengers to their destinations. Today was no different, as I completed two scheduled trips for Uber, shuttling passengers to TPA airport at 10 AM and then to PIE airport at 4:15 PM. The seamless rides showcased Rubay’s reliability, which is crucial in this line of work.

Amid the daily grind, I find myself hustling to make ends meet, attempting to earn enough money to invest in SEO for my website. The challenges are real, especially when relying solely on an Uber salary and driving a car that has accumulated a staggering 534,000 miles.

Amidst the busy streets and occasional challenges, a memorable encounter with a rider comes to mind. During one ride, a passenger recommended a documentary that left a lasting impression. The film centered around Bethany Hamilton, the inspirational surfer who, despite losing an arm in a shark attack, continued to pursue her passion. Her resilience and the words she shared struck a chord with me: “I knew re-learning how to surf with 1 arm was going to be hard, but not impossible.” It’s a sentiment that resonates, reminding me of the power of determination in overcoming obstacles.

As I navigate through the bustling city, thoughts of the upcoming month linger. February, a fast-paced month for me, is about to begin. This Thursday night marks the start of a ritual I’ve embraced since 2016—an annual fast that lasts until the same time on Sunday night. It’s a personal challenge, abstaining from solid food for three days. I recall a time when I used to endure 5-day fasts, but in 2020, I found myself dreaming about food and even having nightmares about starvation. It was then that I decided to shorten the fasting duration to three days.

Reflecting on past experiences, I recall a memorable encounter with a passenger during the last stretch of a 5-day fast. As we crossed the Gandy Bridge to Tampa, I made the mistake of mentioning that it had been five days since my last meal. The revelation didn’t sit well with the rider, understandably so, as we traversed a bridge. Fasting for an extended period might sound extreme, but I’ve come to realize the benefits it brings to my overall well-being.

Life behind the wheel as a rideshare driver is an intricate dance of schedules, conversations, and personal challenges. It’s a journey that unfolds with each ride, weaving together the stories of passengers and the unique experiences encountered on the road.