Uber

• Availability
• Price Estimates
• Usability

Availability

Uber is undoubtedly one of the most widespread ride-sharing services, meaning that users can rely on Uber offers in more locations than other services. Uber is available in 58 countries and more than 260 US cities. Additionally, that the mobile app is easy to use, and riders have more control over the type and size of vehicle that picks them up. Here is a breakdown of different fare options: 

• uberBLACK: Private high-end black car rides for 1-4 passengers, with professional drivers. 
• uberPOOL: Uber's carpool matching option. You can carpool with other riders going in the same direction for a cheaper fare. 
• uberSELECT: Private high-end luxury rides for 1 to 4 passengers with high-rated drivers. 
• uberSUV: Private luxury SUV rides with professional drivers for up to 6 people. 
• uberTAXI: Private rides in local taxi cabs. 
• uberX: Private rides for 1-4 passengers in a comfortable sedan. The basic Uber ride option. 
• uberXL: Private SUV or van rides for up to 6 passengers.
• uberWAV: Private rides in wheel-chair accessible vehicles with drivers who are certified to safely assist people with disabilities. Currently testing in Chicago, Washington DC, New York City, and Philadelphia. 

Price Estimates 

While prices fluctuate by location, time, and car preference, Uber always allows you to get price estimates before you commit to your trip. These estimates are based on the expected time and distance of your ride. Tipping is also available through the app, but there is no required tipping fee. On average, the cost to use a basic car (UberX) is as follows: 

• Cost per mile of $1.48 
• Min. Ride fee of $1.70 
• Safe Rides Fee of $1.00 
• Cancellation fee of $10 

Usability 

Uber is designed for usability. Since reservations, ride information, payment, and reviews are all in the app, riders have a hassle-free experience. Additionally, the app now offers a "Split Fare" option, making riding with others easy. To use Uber, download the app on your device and register. After registration, simply open the app and enter in your destination to request a ride. Users can also choose their preferred driver and car. When a driver arrives, users will get a notification on their device. After the ride, pay in-app and review the experience. On average, Uber riders wait 4 minutes and 16 seconds for their driver to pick them up. When reserving a ride, users receive an Estimated Time of Arrival for their convenience. Uber has a reasonable wait time (an average of about four minutes) and all payment, driver rating, etc. is available through the app. With such convenience, it's no wonder more and more people are choosing Uber over traditional taxicab services. 

• Surge Pricing 
• Independent Contractors 

Surge Pricing 

Of course, with the good comes some bad. Uber is notorious for their surge pricing, which raises the fare for rides at certain times of the day or during periods of high demand. While this is good for Uber drivers, who are independent contractors, it can be inconvenient for riders looking for a cheap lift. 

Independent Contractors 

There have been riders who have complained about their driver and their qualifications. It is also important to remember that users have the ability to rate and view the ratings of their drivers. As of Spring 2016, all drivers were independent contractors rather than direct employees. As such, Uber reviews applicants for the following: 

• DUI or other drug related driving violations or severe infractions 
• History of reckless driving 
• Fatal accidents 
• Sexual offenses 
• Violent crimes 
• Hit and runs 
• Resisting or evading arrest 
• Gun related violations 
• Driving without insurance or suspended license charge in the past 3 years 

During the screening process, the following tools are used: 

• National Sex Offender Registry screen 
• Social Security Trace (a lifetime-long record) 
• County courthouse records going back 7 years for every county of residence 
• Federal courthouse records going back 7 years 
• Multi-State Criminal Database going back 7 years 
• Motor Vehicle Records (past and present)