December 1, 2016

  • Looking Uber

    My sons went through a phase in high school where they used the word uber all the time. It probably had something to do with both being in German classes. The definition of uber is 'denoting an outstanding or supreme example of a particular kind of person or thing.' In light of the happenings in 2016, I don't think this year rates as uber in almost any category. It was not an uber-election, considering the only uber-candidate didn't win the nomination. 2016 didn't have uber-weather. The spring was non-existent with snow falling in April, summer was relatively short and fall was a flash in the pan with winter now upon us again. My projects at work haven't been uber-successful resulting in numerous do overs. And well, Sparky's work experience has been the absolute opposite of uber anything unless you consider it uber-sad or uber-bad.

    Which brings us to this last couple of weeks in which uber has again been heard in conversations around the dinner table. Now that Sparky has lots of time on his hands, he has been exploring ways to make some money. Since he hasn't had any job offers he decided to give Uber a try. That is being an Uber driver. It is a kind of interesting set-up. The phone app let's him know when a fare is nearby. He then accepts or rejects the fare. Accepting the fare, he gives the person a ride from point A to point B. He gets credited with the money and the funds are transferred to a bank account. So the first time he did it he made about $30 in 4 hours. Now that isn't a very high pay rate but he had fun. Then he drove people on a football home game Saturday. He made a good amount of money and even got tipped. He spent a few hours driving folks last week. Once he figured out the "hot spot" and "surge" features of the app he's been making some money. By driving about 4 hours a day, he is averaging just under $100 a day. It is not enough money to support us but it is better than working at McDonald's.

Comments (12)

  • Not a job I'd feel safe in our city. But I don't like to drive any more than I have to. It would probably be interesting people wise.

    • The nice thing is he can pick his time and if he doesn't want to drive to a certain area he can decline the fare. Also there is no exchange of money - everything is online!

  • Interesting. I've heard of it, but never used it.

  • People have suggested using Uber in various situations -- I'm not sure I'd feel comfortable with it, though! I hadn't realized that Sparky wasn't working again -- I hope 2017 will be more positive for him!

  • I think although I lcan enjoy driving for myself, I would work at McD's before being an Uber driver. Actually I'd rather find a way to shave $100 off monthly expenses.
    I am glad Sparky is having fun with it, and I hope he stays safe. I hope this doesn't create too much wear and tear on his vehicle, and that no one drunk ever throws up in it!

    • The vomiting passengers was my biggest concern too. He doesn't drive at night and won't take fares that are drunk. It limits his income but it is safer that way. He can turn down a fare too - if he doesn't want to drive where they want to go or there is something shady about them...

  • Uber good for him! Your dad drove a taxi one summer in Flint when you were a baby. Does he get good mileage on the car? Can he take cost of gasoline off on taxes if he keeps receipts? Just wondering. Interesting post.

    • I didn't know he drove a taxi! The Fit gets good mileage but nothing is deductible easily since it isn't dedicated just for taxi... he will however have to pay taxes on his pittance of an income.

  • Interesting! Would make me very nervous, but I am sure the majority of time, it is quite safe ~

    • They have rules and you know the name of the passenger. That is better than a regular taxi driver... Since there is no money changing hands you are much less likely to be robbed.

Comments are closed.

Post a Comment