10 Polite Habits Your Uber Drivers Actually Dislike
Rideshare drivers meet a variety of people, and most interactions go without trouble. They dislike rude and intoxicated riders for apparent reasons. But some polite passengers make rideshare drivers boil with rage, and most of these habits come down to boundaries. Let’s identify these behaviors and habits for the sake of all Uber and Lyft drivers.
Human GPS
Some riders act like human GPS. They constantly interrupt drivers from their backseat to make trips easier and faster. However, drivers were given destinations, so they already have GPSs containing all the information needed, like construction or traffic jams, so there’s no need to annoy them. They are only trying to do their jobs.
What to do instead
Sometimes, you have to trust people that they are doing their jobs. If you are going to a location that is not on GPS or notice that the GPS is down, you can ask the driver whether they need help. It is always better to ask than assume that you know someone’s job better than them.
Telling your life story
Drivers might wonder if a rider has an off button. Riders are not chitchatting but sharing their life stories, almost as if they are in their therapists’ offices. It is exhausting and uncomfortable, and there is nothing that a driver can do but nod. There is talking and oversharing, and drivers are not paid for the latter.
What to do instead
You might be a chatty Kathy, and there’s nothing wrong with that, but remember that drivers are humans. Imagine if every person told them their life story. It would drive them mad in a matter of hours. Your closest friends and therapists are the only people who have to hear all your problems.
That awkward silence
In contrast, some riders barely say hello, and that’s about it. They don’t complain about the AC, speed, or the music because that’s a polite thing to do. Sharing your insight can be helpful to drivers, and giving a bad rating because you didn’t speak up is not courteous. You might not be in the mood to talk, but if you are cold, there’s nothing wrong with telling the driver to turn on the heat.
What to do instead
Speaking up would obviously solve everyone’s problems, but this may seem like torture for people who are not good at interactions with strangers. Yet, the kind thing to do is to express your concerns so you can prepare a speech in case of need and keep it brief. You might find this a good exercise if your issue is social anxiety.
Riding shotgun
Riders who sit in the front likely believe hitting it off with the driver will make it more comfortable. However, drivers do not want to be overly friendly because they are at their jobs, and the front seats are part of their offices. You’re stepping into an employee-only area, invading the driver’s space while distracting them.
What to do instead
For some people, riding in the back can cause nausea. If this is you, be honest with your driver. They don’t want to end up with puke in their vehicle, nor do they want you to be sick. But, if you think this is a way to show your driver that you value them and want to prove you’re equals, you are not doing a good job.
Human refreshers
Some drivers shared that people who wear too much perfume or cologne are worse than those who skip showering. While these riders get points for staying fresh, they should know that strong fragrances can irritate one’s sinuses and eyes in small, confined spaces. It is a standard etiquette mistake that extends way beyond Uber or Lyft drivers.
What to do instead
If you’re overdoing it with fragrances, you might give people headaches or cause allergic reactions. There are rules regarding scents, and if you’re smelling your fragrance on yourself non-stop all day, you likely overdid it. Spare your co-workers and drivers by spraying between 2 to 5 times.
Talking politics
Rideshare drivers usually enjoy small talk and are aware that politics entered every pore of our society. However, discussing political parties or candidates and arguing with drivers is never a good idea. It is exhausting and distracting, especially since drivers must remain neutral because they are trying to work, not solve world problems.
What to do instead
Some topics are off-limits, including politics and religion. Instead of sharing personal views with a stranger who is only doing their job, focus on sociably acceptable issues. Talking about music, the weather, or sports can be a great way to enjoy a ride without being disruptive.
Offering to feed the driver
Many riders realize mid-ride that they want to stop at a drive-thru, so they offer to “bribe” drivers with promises of sodas or coffee. It is a nice gesture, but drivers are losing rides while stopping and then returning back to the road to lead you to your destination. You should avoid asking drivers to make stops unless it is an emergency, like low blood sugar.
What to do instead
Keep in mind that time is money, and the rules are vague, leaving the drivers wondering whether to risk a bad rating or lose money. You are putting someone in a lose-lose situation, and offering free drinks will not help. It might only make them feel worse.
Long goodbyes
Perhaps you and your driver had a blast, but they are still at work, so chatting away while closing the door is wasteful. Thank your driver, and exit quickly because there’s no need for heart-to-heart, and you’re breaking the first rule of ridesharing – time is money.
What to do instead
Dragging out is not cute or polite, and your driver still needs your rating so they won’t say that out loud. Leave before things get awkward and memories of your lovely ride become cringe-worthy.
The uncomfortable truth
Some passengers get so comfy that they start napping, but only after they take off their shoes or even shave. Others pull up their feet with shoes on, which is how you end up with a cleaning fee. Riders are glad you feel content, but your behavior is overstepping boundaries. That leaves the driver with no choice but to give you a bad rating.
What to do instead
Do not treat rideshares as hotels, motels, or anything other than what they are. Save these things for the privacy of your home, and if you want to nap, do it, but without all the annoying and even harmful practices. Think about the person giving you a ride, and imagine if someone did the same at your office.
Bonding experience
If you happen to be a driver for a rideshare app or a taxi, you might think exchanging stories is a great idea. You will likely feel closer to the driver than an average passenger and even offer some unsolicited advice. If you’re feeling generous, you could share a story or two, but you might not get the desired reaction.
What to do instead
Sharing that you work for the same company is fine, but you are in the passenger’s seat, and nothing is binding you. Respect your colleagues and offer sympathy, but remember they must stay respectful because they are on the clock. There’s no need to share “war” stories or swap advice.
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