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03/18/2024 The Struggle of Uber Drivers: Low Pay and Corporate Negligence

By Food for thought

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 $65β€”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 Even as toll rates increase, Uber continues to reimburse at outdated amounts, seemingly turning a blind eye to the financial impact on its drivers.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.

 

 

 

 

Sunday 03/10/2024 Navigating the Sunday Drive: An Uber Driver’s Perspective

By Food for thought

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.

02/20/2024 uber driver requirements in Florida

By Uncategorized

In Florida, there is no inspection process anymore for vehicles. There
used to be. So really the only requirement for driving for driving for Uber
is a vehicle of course that is on Uber’s list of approved vehicles and a clean
background I do not know what exactly Uber considers a clean background.
They require the Auto insurance document to have your name specifically on it.
Other than that there is not much else really. It is pretty cool driving
whenever you want but the income is very bad. It took me a while to learn that
but it is very real. The income that you hear people earning by the hour is almost
always before expenses are removed and no one ever talks about the very serious risk
all Uber drivers take. For example, I was at a stop sign when this happened to me
and it was not covered at all. It does not matter if it is your fault or not.
Uber does not carry UM anymore and their deductible is $2500.00 now. There
is not any Uber driver that has that kind of money just lying around.
That was me that you heard say “Jesus”

 

02162024 – Maintaining Ruby in Florida: A Rideshare Driver’s Guide to #OilChangeFriday and Uber-Ready Maintenance

By Food for thought

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! πŸš—πŸ’¨ #RideshareLife #UberDriver #CarMaintenance #OilChangeTips

02/07/2024 Rolling Tales: Navigating the Uberverse – A Driver’s Unfiltered Journey

By Uncategorized

Introduction:
Buckle up, passengers! Today, I’m peeling back the curtain to offer an unfiltered look into the daily odyssey of an Uber driver. From the highs of scheduled trips to the mysterious silent zones, join me on a ride through the twists and turns of the Uberverse.

The Morning Shuffle:
As the city awakens, so do I. I have no alarm clock (I just do not own one anymore) I just wake up early each day, if I sleep longer then that means my body needs to sleep. If I need to be up for an appointment or trip or something, I use the alarm on my phone. I get out of bed and sit in front of this computer. I start working. I know what I need to get done and exactly how long I have to do it. So getting to work ASAP is what I do. I try to get as much done as possible before I need to go ride the Peloton in the morning. Yesterday 02/07/2024 I got a new badge of 2000 rides. It is the same color red as the 1500 one. Now I will go through all my Peloton stuff and update it with the new badge.

Scheduled Trips: A Double-Edged Sword:
Scheduled trips, the backbone of my day, bring both structure and challenges. In this segment, discover the delicate dance of reliability and flexibility as I navigate the intricacies of picking up passengers on a predetermined schedule. Scheduled trips are pretty awesome, but an accepted scheduled trip alters the trips that a driver will receive (Sometimes none) until that trip is completed. So when accepting a trip just know that everything is going to be affected until that trip is over. Knowing that I often will not accept a trip because on that.

Passenger Chronicles: Tales from the Backseat:
The heart of my journey lies in the stories shared by the diverse souls who grace my backseat. From jubilant celebrations to heartfelt conversations, every ride becomes a chapter in the book of my experiences. Join me in reliving the unique moments that make each trip unforgettable. Like yesterday, I was bringing this lady to TPA from Bradenton and even though was showed us arriving at 444PM she asked me to get in the fast lane (Which I hate) but I did exactly what she asked. Usually, if a tip is going to come in it happens right away, that did not happen. I figured one wasn’t coming at all, it happens. I woke up today and there was a tip in there from her for $16.81. The button used for sending a thank you message has been changed to a much smaller button to accommodate yet another change to that message. Uber drivers expect these changes, so they just don’t complain about them.

The Silent Zone Enigma: Unraveling Uber’s Mysterious Territories:
The Uber app’s silent zones happen all the time to me now. I used to drive exclusively in Pinellas County, except when I dropped someone off at TPA then I would pick up a passenger from TPA
and then take them to their destination, on September 29th 2023, that came to an end. Now in Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties I just stay online and even if I drive through a surge, I get nothing which is very strange. I have contacted Uber IT support staff about this several times and they all say the same thing. My account looks fine to them. That tells me that Uber has done something to my account for some reason that their support staff doesn’t know about. As soon as I get off on the Skyway Bridge on the Manatee County side, request start flowing in immediately.

Adapting and Thriving: From St. Petersburg to Manatee County:
Life as an Uber driver is a constant evolution. Learn how I’ve adapted to unforeseen challenges, shifting my focus from the bustling streets of St. Petersburg to the hidden gems of Manatee County. It’s a strategic move born out of necessity, showcasing the resilience required in this ever-changing landscape.

Conclusion: Beyond the Meter – A Driver’s Perspective:
As the sun sets on another day of driving, I reflect on the myriad experiences that define my life as an Uber driver. Beyond the meter and the GPS, it’s a journey filled with surprises, challenges, and the undeniable thrill of the unknown. Come along for the ride as I share the unscripted, unfiltered tales from the driver’s seat, where every trip is an adventure waiting to happen.

Sunday 02/04/2024 Early Morning Productivity Hacks: A Rideshare Driver’s Guide to Boosting Efficiency with Fasting and the Peloton

By Uncategorized

It’s 6:19 AM, and I’m already deep into my day, thanks to a game-changing routine that involves waking up early and embracing my Peloton workout at 9AM. As a rideshare driver, I’ve discovered that this unique approach not only enhances my productivity but also contributes to my overall well-being. Join me on this journey as I share insights into my morning routine, the benefits of fasting, and the impact of Peloton workouts on my daily life.

Early to Bed, Early to Rise: Unleashing Productivity
Discover how going to bed right after eating or, on fasting days, post-shower, sets the stage for a highly productive morning. Working on my PC until around 9 AM, followed by a Peloton session, has become my secret sauce for tackling the day with focus and energy. Learn how this early morning routine has transformed my work habits and allowed me to accomplish tasks efficiently.

The Bi-Annual 3-Day Fast: Why I Do It
Explore the reasons behind my bi-annual three-day fasts in February and August. I delve into the numerous benefits, both health-wise and economically, that come with this practice. Understand how fasting has become an integral part of my yearly routine, providing me with a reset and a chance to prioritize my well-being.

Day 3 Chronicles: Fasting and Uber Driving
Take a behind-the-scenes look at my fasting journey, recorded daily in video format. Despite the intense hunger on day 3,Β  learn how I continue my usual activities, including driving for Uber and maintaining my Peloton routine. Discover the surprising lack of pain or discomfort during the fasting process and gain insights into how I navigate the challenges of an empty stomach.

Weighing In: Results from August 2023 Fast
Get an exclusive peek into the before-and-after weigh-ins conducted in my birthday suit. Explore the impact of fasting on my weight as I share the results from my August 2023 fast. Gain a deeper understanding of the physical changes and discipline involved in this unique approach to well-being.

As the sun rises, I’ll be out on the road, hungry for success and ready to share the secrets behind my early morning productivity routine. Whether you’re a rideshare driver or someone looking to optimize your mornings, this blog post has the insights you need to kickstart your day on the right note.

01/29/2024 Life Behind the Wheel: Navigating Uber, Milestones, and Fasting Adventures from a full-time Uber driver

By Food for thought

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 2016β€”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.

 

 

Saturday 01/20/2024

By Uncategorized

Today is actually the 21st of January 2024, and it’s 8 AM. Yesterday proved to be a challenging Saturday for an Uber driver in Manatee County. The day kicked off on a positive note with a rewarding ride to Paradise City, earning $25.44 along with a generous $7.00 tip – a cool start. However, the remainder of the day took an unexpected turn.

As the afternoon unfolded, I found myself traversing various destinations, including Bradenton Beach, IMG Academy, and SRQ airport, all within the constraints of rides under $20.00. The culmination of my day was a trip to Fruitville Road from 301 in Parrish, raking in just over $15.00. Subsequently, I took a woman from East Bradenton to Blake Hospital in West Bradenton, earning slightly over $22.00.

Reflecting on the day’s experiences, it was evident that the earnings were not as promising as one would hope for a typical Saturday. The unpredictable nature of ride requests and the limited fare amounts for each trip contributed to the challenging atmosphere. However, with the hope for a brighter day, I’m optimistic that today, Sunday 01/21/2024, will bring about better opportunities and more rewarding rides for this Uber driver.

The life of an Uber driver is marked by the uncertainties of each day, and the journey from one destination to another unfolds with its own set of challenges. As I navigate through the streets of Manatee County, the constant goal remains to provide reliable and efficient transportation services to passengers, all while adapting to the dynamic nature of the job.

While yesterday may have presented its share of obstacles, the resilience of an Uber driver is unwavering. Each day brings new possibilities and a chance to turn things around. As I embark on the journeys that today holds, I am ready to navigate the roads, face the challenges, and hopefully, experience a more rewarding day behind the wheel. Here’s to a better Sunday for this Uber driver on the 21st of January 2024!

Saturday 01/13/2024

By Uncategorized

Today’s journey as an Uber driver unfolded with two trips that took me through the scenic routes of Parrish, Manatee County, and beyond. The first ride involved picking up two women in Parrish and transporting them to Hillsborough County. The second trip brought me back to Parrish, where I picked up a female passenger heading to her home in Palmetto. The twist? It was a multiple-stop trip, and, despite a minor car issue, the fare exceeding $25 made it worthwhile.

Now, let’s talk about that unexpected car hiccup. With my vehicle boasting over 530,000 miles, wear and tear is expected. The particular issue at hand was the malfunctioning controls on my driver’s side front door. The passenger, by lowering the right rear window, inadvertently brought my attention to the looming problem.

Rather than rushing to a mechanic, I turned to the digital DIY haven – YouTube. The problem? The two windows on the passenger side refused to budge using the buttons on my door. After watching a couple of online tutorials, a seemingly simple solution emerged.

The advice was to roll the windows all the way down and continue holding the button for 5 seconds. Then, roll them all the way up, holding the button up for another 5 seconds to reset them. Skeptical yet optimistic, I decided to give it a shot. To my amazement, it worked flawlessly on both windows, resolving the issue in under a minute and costing me nothing.

This incident served as a poignant reminder of the unexpected challenges and victories that come with being a rideshare driver. It also highlighted the invaluable resource that platforms like YouTube can be, providing quick and effective solutions for everyday car troubles.

So, here’s to the open road, the unpredictability of each trip, and the simple joys of resolving car issues on the fly – all in a day’s work for a rideshare driver. No titles, just real stories from behind the wheel.

Wednesday January 10th 2024

By Food for thought

Today, I completed two trips for Uber. One of the riders worked for the U.S. Department of Defense as a psychologist and was heading back to Germany, where she would live until next year. She was in Florida on vacation to take care of her 92-year-old parents, who were dealing with various health problems (who wouldn’t at that age). The rider shared that she was 62 years old and had two brothers and three sisters. She mentioned that she never had children, which I think is an admirable decision. I picked her up in Manatee County and took her to a hotel in Hillsborough County, Florida. Driving for Uber allows me to meet interesting people from all walks of life and learn about their stories. It’s always fascinating to hear about their experiences and the reasons behind their decisions. As an Uber driver, I’m grateful for the opportunity to connect with people and provide a valuable service