Huber Rides Again!
By
Gerry Niskern
Have you taken an Uber ride lately?
I had rode with Uber in the last few weeks to get to the doctors. A lot has changed since my first experience a few years ago when ridesharing was pretty new. After some surgery, I didn’t feel like driving and I signed up with Uber.
On the first occasion I needed a ride, I was told the doctor could squeeze me in if I could make it by a certain time. I summoned Uber and watched in frustration as the tiny little car wandered all over the mountain above me on the screen as the minutes ticked by. When he finally arrived I got in and started to explain my time problem when suddenly, the very large man behind the wheel pounded his fist on the ceiling and said, “first of all, we are going to need a change of attitude”. I was struck speechless, and little voice in my head that sounded like my mother was saying “never get into a car with a stranger!”
After that terrifying moment, when I could finally speak again, we started down the street. I started to explain my time schedule again when he suddenly slammed on the brakes and declared, “ Do you want me to turn this car around and go back? I will get you there on time if we can just proceed.” And he did. Needless to say, after my medical issues were over I was happy to be driving myself again.
When I quit driving at night I started taking Uber way out to the family holiday celebrations and catching a ride home with one of the younger drivers in the clan. It’s worked out great and I’ve been fascinated meeting my many different drivers over the years.
I like to ride up front and most are happy to accommodate me. A few weren’t. When I explained that I was very claustrophobic one fellow insisted I get in the back. He said that’s silly and he argued that I would have more room in the back. When I insisted on the front he was not happy picking up the trash he had accumulated in the front seat.
I always tip something because I know the customer service business is hard, but I recently learned that around 60% of Uber users do not tip. I was a little surprised, but I could understand the reluctance sometimes. Most guys were happy to engage in friendly conversation but a few were not. They only answered in one word or two.
When I ask how long they have been driving in Phoenix, I find that usually “breaks the ice.” I love it when they declare they have been here for twenty years and that I wouldn’t believe the changes they have seen. I love it even more when I tell them how long I’ve been here and watch their reaction.
Some drivers get out and open the door for you. Other do not. Some help you carry you packages to the door at Christmas. Others do not. In my experience, not always, but as a rule, the older men are more courteous and helpful. The drivers from another country like to talk, tell you about their family and any other work they are doing.
When I need special rides from family members on a medical issue they are always willing, but It’s also great to have uber available and totally improved since my first wild ride.