I drive Uber for fun

So once a month or so - when I am bored and have the time - I turn on my phone and start driving.  It usually provides great stories - inspiring, sad, and just funny.  A slice of life every time.

The money side of Uber is really bad - it is almost like a payday loan scam.  They say you can make 15-20 an hour - which you do - but that is GROSS sales.  If you dont know the difference between gross and net sales you shouldnt be uber driving - you do have depreciation and expenses.

But I am not worried about the money.  I figure I break about even.  I have a pretty cool car and when I pick people up they are shocked and surprised and thrilled.  I like that.

My family thinks I am crazy.  I cant really argue.  This is what happens to aging sports bettors who have no life purpose.

Like your purpose though.

Then I thought to myself ... do I really want a bunch of strangers sitting in my car?

I would have to disinfect the back seat thoroughly each time that I Ubered, and I mean thoroughly! I'm talking about Silkwood shower scene thorough! 

Much like waiters and bartenders, you're not making a living off the base salary - it's the tips. I've only used Uber a couple of times, but I make sure to hand the guy at least 30% of what the ride costs in cash. I've yet to have a bad experience (like I've had with taxis in the past), but uber should allow you to tip on the same transaction - or have they changed that policy now? I don't know, because I haven't used it in a few months.

But, if all your picking up is "drunk 20 somethings, grandmas, and working single mothers", then that explains the lack of tip money. But, sounds like you're having fun, so......

I wasn't saying that I dont need the money - I was really saying there isnt much money in driving Uber unless you have a strategy (surges etc).  

I do.  It really is a PITA too.  And the first time someone pukes in my car, all of my fun will end.

It is what you think it is.

But posting here and actually saying it out loud makes me rethink my choices.  

The interesting thing about being an Uber driver is you can quit any time you want, you can drive any time you want.  That is far and away the best reason to drive for Uber.

Kidding around Van. 

I'd do as you are doing around my area if I had an electric beer can vehicle. 4x4 is no bueno.

State Farm has this rider attachment you can add for uber or lyft.

No joke, but I'm the only one among my siblings, cousins and close friends that don't have a DUI.

I'm very fortunate too b/c I was stupid enough to put myself and others in danger by drinking and driving almost every weekend.  I want to smack my 20 year old self.  Such a selfish thing to do.  You live and you learn though.  

Based on this post, I did some more research.

Found out that it is really a grey area - and if you are driving a honda civic - it isnt going to matter.  But if you are driving a nicer car where you want some control over the quality of the repair - then it does matter.

In the end - I AM RETIRED FROM UBER DRIVING!!!

Seriously - thanks for the post- it made me look in to something I should have from the start.  Too much risk for my comfort level.

Maybe I will buy a honda civic for my uber driving - but my nice car is retired.

Thanks