My 5 Golden Rules for Rideshare Driving
After years of driving and thousands of rides as a rideshare driver, I’ve picked up a ton of valuable lessons—seriously, a LOT! I've definitely made my share of mistakes, which is why I created my 5 Golden Rules to help you get the most out of this gig. If you’re a fellow driver or thinking about joining the rideshare world, these rules can save you from some headaches and help you provide a better experience for your passengers.
Golden Rule #5: Avoid Politics and Religion
• Why It Matters: In today’s politically charged environment, it can be tempting to engage in conversations about controversial topics. However, it’s crucial to remember that you don’t know your rider’s beliefs or background.
• The Risk: Talking about politics or religion can alienate or offend your rider, which could lead to bad ratings or no tips. You have about a 50% chance of hitting a nerve, and that’s not a risk worth taking!
• What to Do Instead: Stick to neutral topics like sports, vacations, or even the classic weather chit-chat. Let your rider lead the conversation, and keep it light and friendly. Remember, your goal is to earn tips and provide a pleasant ride, not to win an argument!
Golden Rule #4: Know When to Talk
• The Balance: Some riders enjoy chatting, while others prefer a quiet ride. It’s your job to read the situation and determine what your passenger prefers.
• How to Find Out: Begin with a warm greeting, such as, “Hi, I’m Charles!” Then, ask a straightforward question like, “How’s your day going?” Their response will help you decide how to proceed.
• Engagement: If they seem chatty, you can ask open-ended questions about their weekend plans or thoughts on the weather. If they prefer quiet, let them know you’re there if they need anything—like music preferences or temperature adjustments—and then enjoy the ride in silence.
Golden Rule #3: No Unaccompanied Minors or Kids Without Car Seats
• Safety First: Allowing unaccompanied minors or children without proper car seats can lead to serious legal and safety issues.
• Potential Consequences: You risk being deactivated by rideshare companies, facing false allegations, or even getting in trouble with law enforcement. Plus, if you get into an accident, you might not be covered by insurance.
• Stand Your Ground: If someone tries to pressure you into taking a ride with a minor or without a car seat, don’t hesitate to say no. It’s better to deal with a little inconvenience than to face potential legal trouble.
Golden Rule #2: Never Drive Incoherent Belligerent Drunks
• Why It’s a No-Go: Drunk passengers can be rude, loud, and even get sick in your car. Only take them if they have a sober person with them to help manage the situation.
• Learning the Hard Way: I’ve had my share of bad experiences with intoxicated passengers. One time, I picked up a very large man who passed out in my backseat, leaving me responsible for getting him inside his house!
• Cancellation is Key: If you feel a ride will be problematic, don’t hesitate to cancel. Sometimes losing out on a ride can lead to better opportunities right after. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Golden Rule #1: Trust Your Instincts
• Your Safety Comes First: As an independent contractor, you’re not obligated to take every ride. If something feels off, listen to your gut.
• Know When to Say No: If the situation doesn’t feel safe—be it the passenger, the location, or any other factor—trust yourself to cancel the ride.
• Stay Composed: If a passenger attempts to pressure you into something uncomfortable, exit the situation safely without escalating it. Your safety is the top priority!
Retired Golden Rule: Never Give Out the Rider’s Name
This was a Golden Rule I felt strongly about and worked hard to enforce during rider pickups. My only piece of identifying information as a driver was the passenger’s name, and I was reluctant to give it up. I generally found success with this approach, but it often led to retaliatory bad ratings. While I believe it’s the best practice for keeping everyone safe on the platform, I started to put myself in my riders’ shoes and realized that I shouldn’t apply this rule rigidly every time. I recognized that it’s not a “one-size-fits-all” guideline—it should only be used in genuinely unsafe situations. For instance, it doesn’t make sense to enforce this when picking up three young women from a beach bar at 1 AM.
• Protect Your Information: Sharing a passenger’s name can lead to confusion or even dangerous situations. If someone asks for the name of your rider, politely respond with your name and ask them to tell you who they are.
• Stay Professional: If a passenger insists on knowing their name, remind them that your name, along with the car details and license plate, are in the app. This way, they can verify their ride without putting you in a tricky situation.
By following these Golden Rules, you can create a safer and more enjoyable experience for yourself and your passengers. Rideshare driving can be rewarding, but it comes with its challenges. Remember, every ride is a chance to learn and grow as a driver. Happy driving!
