With better than 2 million riders expected for the celebratory hours after the the new year is rung in across the U.S., Uber set out a few consumer-friendly guidelines to avoid price surges that feel predatory.
Uber, and its competitor Lyft, allow customers use smartphone apps to hail rides from everyday people who use their personal vehicles. Their fares are typically cheaper than a taxi ride.
Unlike taxis, however, Uber and Lyft cars are not price regulated, so periods of peak demand — when the bars let out, for example — often come with cost spikes that catch riders off guard.
Complaints about the practice increase when riders are tipsier than normal, such as from or other holiday parties. In September, a at the Pepsi Center.
Uber noted in a chart that it expects ridership — and fares — to peak between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m., when folks are heading home, along with earlier surges at about 9 p.m. as people make their way to various celebrations.
It did not offer cost estimates.
Double-check cell phones for confirmation of Uber rides — as well as those of increased rates. Splitting fares with others also can minimize the damage of riding at peak times, the company said.
“For the most affordable rides, request right when the ball drops at midnight,” Uber said in a press release, “or wait until later for prices to return to normal.”
Ride-share service Lyft also will have what it calls “prime time” rates of up to 400 percent of the standard rate, from both 7-10 p.m. and again from 1-3 a.m.
The rate will be a during those hours, according to the company’s website.
David Migoya: 303-954-1506, dmigoya@denverpost.com or twitter.com/davidmigoya
